OTTAWA, March 18, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CAA North & East Ontario encourages drivers to familiarize themselves with their rights regarding vehicle towing as outlined in the Consumer Protection Act.
“It’s the time of year when potholes and compromised road infrastructure can result in damaged vehicles requiring a tow,” says Christina Hlusko, President and CEO, CAA North & East Ontario. “Recent stories of motorists being taken advantage of highlight how important it is for consumers to be aware of their rights in order to protect themselves from excessive towing fees and predatory behavior, often despite local bylaws.”
CAA actively works with stakeholders and government officials toward provincial regulation of the towing industry for the protection of consumers. CAA has published a TOWING BILL OF RIGHTS based on rules and regulations set by the Ontario government to help educate motorists.
Towing Bill of Rights
- You have the right to decide who can tow your vehicle and to what location unless otherwise directed by police.
- A permission to tow form must be signed before towing starts, unless you have an auto club membership.
- The towing company must provide you with an itemized invoice, before receiving payment.
- The final bill cannot be more than 10% above the quoted price.
- If you choose, you can pay by credit card.
- During business hours, you can access your vehicle to get your personal items, while it’s stored at a towing facility.
- A tow operator must notify you where your vehicle will be towed.
- Tow operators must disclose if they are receiving a financial incentive for towing your vehicle to a particular vehicle storage facility or repair shop.
Note: Exemptions around authorization and invoices are applied if services are provided through a membership association like CAA, where consumer are not charged for the specific service provided.
For more information, please contact:
Mandy Chepeka
Communications Manager
CAA North & East Ontario
Phone: (613) 820-1895 ext 6415
Cell: (613) 797-1253
E-mail: mchepeka@caaneo.on.ca
About CAA
CAA is a federation of eight Clubs providing over six million Members with exceptional emergency roadside service, complete automotive and travel services, member savings and comprehensive insurance services. CAA also advocates on issues of concern to its members, including air traveler rights, road safety, the environment, mobility, infrastructure and consumer protection.