Why Towing Scams Happen
The circumstances of a breakdown create ideal conditions for exploitation: you're stressed, often alone, typically in an unfamiliar or dangerous location, and need help quickly. Predatory operators know this and design their tactics around it. The best defense is knowing what to look for before you're in that situation.
Scam #1: The "Consent of Owner" Dodge — Unsolicited Towing
Also known as "predatory towing" or "bandit towing," this scheme involves a tow truck showing up at an accident or breakdown without being called, hooking up your vehicle before you can object, and then demanding high payment to release it.
How it works: The operator monitors police scanners or drives highways looking for stalled vehicles. They arrive before the driver can call a preferred company and immediately begin attaching equipment. Once hooked, they claim "fees are already running."
How to stop it: You have the right to refuse an unsolicited tow. Say clearly and calmly: "I did not call you. Do not attach to my vehicle." You can also ask for their license number and call the police if they refuse to leave. If your vehicle has already been attached but not moved, you generally still have the right to refuse in Utah.
Scam #2: The Bait-and-Switch Quote
A company quotes you $85 to tow your vehicle to a nearby shop. When the driver arrives and you've signed the authorization form, suddenly there's a "fuel surcharge," an "after-hours fee," a "dolly fee," and a "heavy vehicle charge." The final bill is $240.
How to protect yourself: Before authorizing any tow, ask for the total all-in price including all fees. Ask specifically: "Is there any charge you haven't mentioned?" Get the quote in writing — a text message from the dispatcher works. If they refuse to give you an itemized estimate, hang up and call a different company.
Scam #3: Inflated Storage Fees
A tow company takes your vehicle to their lot after an accident or impound. When you go to retrieve it, you're told storage started the moment it arrived — including overnight — and daily fees are $95/day instead of the typical $40–$60. You owe $475 before you can get the car back.
What's legal: Utah law regulates maximum storage fees for state-contracted tows. However, private tows (ones you authorize yourself) may have higher negotiated rates. Always ask the storage rate before authorizing a tow to that company's lot.
What to do: Request an itemized receipt. Pay under protest if necessary to retrieve your vehicle, then dispute in small claims court if you believe you were overcharged.
Scam #4: The "Shop Referral" Kickback Scheme
The tow operator steers your vehicle — without your knowledge or consent — to a repair shop that pays them a referral fee. The shop then overcharges for repairs. The tow company and shop split the proceeds.
How to prevent it: Be explicit and specific when authorizing a tow: "Take this vehicle to [specific shop name and address] — and nowhere else." If you don't have a preferred shop, you can ask to be towed to your home address to make arrangements yourself.
Scam #5: Fake or Unlicensed Operators
Some "towing companies" are unlicensed individuals with a truck and a fake business name. They may offer unusually low quotes to get your authorization, then either deliver poor service, hold your vehicle for additional payment, or charge your credit card for services never rendered.
Verification steps: Ask for the company's Utah towing license number. Check that the truck is properly marked with the company name, DOT number, and driver identification. Verify that the company has a physical address — not just a cell phone. Using our National Tow Connect directory connects you with verified, established operators.
Scam #6: Cash-Only with No Receipt
The driver demands cash only and refuses to provide a receipt or invoice. This is designed to prevent you from disputing the charge or building an evidence trail for a complaint.
What to do: Legitimate towing companies accept credit cards and provide receipts. If a driver insists on cash only and refuses documentation, photograph the truck, truck plates, and driver before paying. Write a note yourself with date, time, location, amount, and the driver's appearance. Report this to the Utah Division of Consumer Protection.
Scam #7: Scareware at the Scene
After a minor accident, a predatory operator overstates damage to convince you the vehicle is unsafe to drive — "the axle is cracked," "the transmission is broken," "driving this will destroy your engine." The goal is to convince you to authorize a tow to their lot rather than driving the vehicle to a shop of your choice.
Reality check: Unless your vehicle has obvious major damage (fluid pouring out, wheel visibly bent, airbags deployed), you are usually within your rights to have it inspected before authorizing a tow. Ask for the specific safety concern, check it yourself if possible, and if in doubt, call your insurance company's hotline before signing anything.
Your Rights Under Utah Law
- Right to choose your tow company: You can choose any licensed tow operator you prefer, even on a state highway. You do not have to use the company dispatched by police unless there's a safety emergency.
- Right to refuse an unsolicited tow: A tow company cannot legally take your vehicle without your authorization (except in certain public safety situations authorized by law enforcement).
- Right to an itemized invoice: You can request a full breakdown of all charges before payment.
- Right to file a complaint: Utah Division of Consumer Protection handles complaints against deceptive trade practices. Call 801-530-6601 or visit consumerprotection.utah.gov.
How to Find a Trustworthy Tow Company
The best protection against towing scams is having a trusted company's number already in your phone before you need them. Here's how to identify a reputable operator:
- Established local business with a physical address and years in operation
- Willing to provide upfront pricing estimates over the phone
- Accepts major credit cards and provides receipts
- Positive reviews on Google, Yelp, or Better Business Bureau
- Proper licensing and insurance (ask directly if you need confirmation)
- Responds to calls professionally and provides an ETA
Our directory of SLC tow trucks features companies that meet these standards. Save one number today — ideally a company that covers both your home neighborhood and your regular commute routes.
Are you a legitimate towing company in the Salt Lake area? List your business and reach drivers looking for trustworthy service.