American Towing and Recovery Institute onThe Go

Road Warriors: Facing Life and Death in the Towing Business


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Tragedy struck the towing industry multiple times in recent weeks as three tow operators lost their lives while performing roadside assistance. These deaths underscore the critical importance of Move Over laws that many drivers continue to ignore despite the fatal consequences.

From the heartbreaking stories of Ken Sopasto in Florida and Richard Rodriguez in New York—both killed while working roadside—to the harrowing account of an Oklahoma City tower who narrowly escaped death when his quick-thinking colleague pulled him from a burning truck, this episode explores the very real dangers towing professionals face daily. As one veteran tower put it, "You can wear all the fluorescent you want, have all the fancy flashing lights, have all the trucks behind you. All it takes is that one person not to pay attention."

Beyond safety concerns, the episode delves into troubling legal issues plaguing the industry. In Kansas City, a mother-son duo faces 18 felony charges for allegedly conducting illegal tows, falsifying documents, and harassing vehicle owners. Meanwhile, in Australia, a woman received a shocking $5,000 bill for a routine tow—a predatory practice exploiting regulatory loopholes. The violence directed at towing operators continues as well, with three tow trucks mysteriously set ablaze overnight in Brampton, Ontario.

It's not all grim news, however, as Montana recently passed legislation giving towing vehicles preference in roundabouts, acknowledging the unique challenges these vehicles face. The American Towing Recovery Institute also announced numerous upcoming training opportunities across the country, including specialized sessions for handling electric vehicles through their new EV Clever app.

As we wrap each episode, the message becomes increasingly urgent: stay on the passenger side of your truck, remain vigilant, and prioritize safety above all else. The towing industry shouldn't have to count more fallen colleagues simply because drivers can't be bothered to move over or slow down. Have you witnessed drivers ignoring Move Over laws? What will it take to change this deadly behavior?

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American Towing and Recovery Institute onThe GoBy Grey Door Productions LLC

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