Breaking down on the side of the road is really annoying. It’s not just a bother; it’s also dangerous for you and the people with you. Bad people and tricky towing companies might try to take advantage of this situation.
In Dubai, there are many towing services that work all day and night. This makes it more likely to come across a fake roadside assistance company. Especially after an accident, some tow truck drivers might use sneaky tricks to get more money.
They might make you sign papers that let them tow your car, and later they add extra fees that you don’t need to pay. Also, some tow truck drivers might work with car repair shops that charge you even more money.
Never Fall Victim to These Roadside Assistance Scams
1. Unregistered Services
When you’re in a stranded situation and an uninvited truck shows up offering help, keep in mind that you have the right to decline their assistance. This is a well-known tactic among unscrupulous roadside assistance providers.
While it might seem like a stroke of luck to receive aid in a difficult situation, unless the company is a registered and respected 24-hour towing service in Dubai, you can’t be certain of their motives.
Additionally, take a moment to scrutinize the truck’s signage or request valid identification. Your best course of action is to contact a reputable towing service, such as Dubai Recovery and Towing Service.
2. Hidden Charges
Look out for extra charges and fees for additional services – this is another red flag you should keep an eye on. To prevent falling for deceit, take the smart route by comparing quotes and only paying for the specific services you’ve actually gotten.
Double-check that the quote covers all expenses, including fuel, mileage, and any miscellaneous fees. And remember, it’s crucial to get everything documented in writing to ensure transparency.
3. Incorrect Paperwork
When the tow truck arrives, it’s crucial to carefully review the invoice you received over the phone. Don’t hesitate to decline the tow truck service if the paperwork doesn’t provide a comprehensive list of services or if there are any concealed charges.
It’s essential to ensure that both the truck and the invoice are perfectly aligned before proceeding.
4. Single Towing Destination
Steer clear of towing companies in Dubai that confine their services to a single location. These companies often restrict their towing options to a specific auto body shop, potentially exposing you to additional fees from both the shop and the towing company.
Unlike such limitations, Dubai Recovery Service boasts multiple convenient locations throughout UAE, ensuring a more flexible and cost-effective towing experience.
5. Roadside Assistance Programs
Avoid collaborating with towing companies that fail to acknowledge certified roadside assistance programs. While cash-only towing services may serve a purpose, it’s advisable to partner with a company that respects and recognizes roadside assistance programs.
Towing firms that decline to accept roadside assistance programs often lack proper credentials and adherence to industry standards.
We also advises that you gather the following details before a tow truck transports your vehicle:
- The complete cost of the towing service.
- Any daily storage fees that may apply.
Documentation specifying the destination of the vehicle’s towing (especially if not to your preferred location).
Related Article: Why Should You Always Avoid Driving on a Flat Tyre?
Tips to Combat Tow Truck Scams
Here are effective measures you can take to safeguard yourself from falling victim to tow truck scams:
- Choose Your Preferred Body Shop: Don’t allow a tow truck operator to dictate your choice of repair shop. Often, these operators might be affiliated with a specific shop and are primarily interested in making extra money. If the driver insists on taking your car elsewhere, consider contacting an alternative tow truck company that respects your choice.
- Opt for Credit Cards: Be cautious if a tow truck company demands cash payment. This could indicate involvement in an unlawful operation. Opt for transactions using credit cards or other traceable methods to ensure transparency and legality.
- Capture the Scene: Use your phone to capture photographs of the situation, including the tow vehicle. These visual records can serve as crucial evidence in case any disputes arise.
- Request Visual Documentation for “Illegal Parking” Tows: If your car has been towed due to alleged “illegal parking,” ask for photographic proof from the towing company. This ensures transparency and prevents unjustified charges.
- Challenge the Fees: Towing and storage fees might sometimes be agreed upon between the tow company and local law enforcement. If you suspect that you’ve been charged excessively, reach out to your local police department for clarification.
- Lodge a Complaint: If you believe you’ve been taken advantage of by a tow truck operator, take action. Contact your insurance company or the local police department to file a formal complaint and seek assistance in addressing the situation.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling prey to dishonest tow truck practices and protect yourself from potential scams.
