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If a tow truck operator at a crash scene tells you the tow is “free,” you are about to be scammed. There is no such thing as a free tow in a commercial industry. It is a hook, and if you take the bait, it will end up costing you thousands.
The offer of a “free” tow is a calculated tactic used by predatory operators to get your keys without any discussion of price. They are banking on your relief and stress to make you agree to something that sounds too good to be true. And it is.
How the "Free" Tow Scam Works
The operator is not running a charity. They make their money on the back end, through a series of inflated and often fraudulent charges that are passed on to you or your insurer later.
- The Bait: You are offered a “free” or “no cost” tow from the accident scene.
- The Switch: Your car is taken to a private holding yard that you did not choose.
- The Invoice: A bill is generated with a zero-dollar tow fee, but it includes exorbitant charges for other items:
- “Accident Recovery Fee”: $500 - $1000
- “Site Cleanup Fee”: $200
- “Administration Fee”: $150
- “Daily Storage Fee”: $50 per day, starting immediately.
- The Hostage Situation: Your car is held until this massive bill is paid. The “free” tow has now become a multi-thousand-dollar problem.
It’s a Shell Game
The operator is simply moving the cost from the “towing” line item to other, less-regulated line items. They can technically claim the tow was free, while still charging you a fortune. When your insurer disputes these junk fees, the operator will pursue you for the debt, using your vehicle as leverage.
The Only Response to a "Free" Tow Offer
If you are ever offered a free tow at the roadside, your answer must be an immediate and firm no.
Say this:
“I do not want a free tow. I want a written quote for the total cost to transport my vehicle to [your chosen destination].”
A legitimate business makes money by charging a fair price for a service. A scam operator makes money by hiding the price and trapping the customer. The offer of a free service is the clearest sign you are dealing with the latter.
InstaTow provides a clear, itemised, upfront price for every job. There are no hidden fees and no misleading offers. We believe in transparent pricing, not tricks.
If it sounds too good to be true, it is. Call for advice before you agree.
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