Calgary council cracks down on predatory behaviour from tow truck operators

New rules for tow trucks in Calgary will keep operators away from collision scenes, unless requested by emergency responders.

Tow truck drivers will no longer be allowed to approach Calgary collisions unless requested.

City council has passed changes to the existing Calgary traffic bylaw prohibiting towing companies from stopping at a crash or getting within a 200-metre radius unless asked to by those involved or emergency crews.

“The amendments are in response to a growing local trend, where some tow truck operators have attended collision scenes without being called, impeding first responders’ ability to help accident victims, intimidating customers and charging exorbitant fees,” said Lorna Kearnes, spokesperson for the city’s policy and bylaw development, in a Tuesday news release.

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Tow truck operators convicted of disobeying the bylaw could face a fine of up to $10,000.

The city says the high fine was set as a deterrent to the “disruptive and aggressive behaviours by chaser or poacher tow truck operators.”

The amendments, passed by council on Tuesday, are now in effect.