TowZone

Higher Resolution Images Require More Bandwidth. Lowering the bandwidth reduces the image quality. Some venues do this automatically, that's something we need to look into in regards to the message board. Sorry for the problem, I linked the images from the website by copying a pasting them into the post.

I sounds as though constructing a skid and maneuvering that under the vehicle by lifting one end. As that would likely be a much better alternative to creating forks which could do harm to your wheel lift. I am assuming you have a regular style wheel lift rather than the common autoload most of us are thinking about. That is what many of us operate in light duty these days. I suppose if I were to do it your way and I had a Regular L Arm style wheel lift I would create short extensions lift one side of the car the stabilize on each end position the lift under and behind the tires then lift. Of course it will work better if you are able to remove the slides from your stinger. In the end a Skid Loader would be ideal, since a tow truck doesn't make for a good front loader or rear loader in the situation.

The Question was asked on FB: A) Customer calls to complain that the driver failed to give the key to said vehicles owner when delivered. B) The Driver stated without doubt that he gave the key to the owner when the vehicle was delivered. How does your company handle this situation?

CSTOW - Illinois Frank Sanders - Virginia Rick Johnson - Indiana Luke Daulton - Illinois Rick Ruback - Texas Geovanny Castro - ? Gray91 - Garrett Gray ? Bryan Tiedens - Indiana Driver#1 - Nebraska Tom Landskron - Wisconsin Amanda Greenwell - Kentucky Greg - Kansas kyle Parmenter Vwagon4life - Kansas Daniel Sayres Sr. - WestVirginia Trucker Jeff - North Carolina Bret Bonz - Texas Randall Hartz Jr. - ? Donna Rushton - Missouri Donna Rushton _ Pennsylvania

Waterville residents complain about wreckers in residential neighborhood Jessica Laliberte and her mother have complained to the city about noise on High Street from wreckers driven by tenants of an apartment building on the street who are on-call employees of a Winslow wrecker service. WATERVILLE — A resident of High Street has lodged complaints with the city about what she deems is a wrecker business located in a residential neighborhood against city codes, a claim the city refutes, saying no codes have been violated. Jessica Laliberte says flatbed wreckers from Carroll’s Body Shop & Wrecker Service in Winslow park at an apartment building diagonally across the street from her home. The flatbed wreckers, driven by the apartment tenants, wake her and her elderly mother up at night when they come down the hill and brake, rev their engines, honk their horns and make beeping sounds when they back up. Laliberte, who works from home, says when she is on a conference call during the day, people on the call hear the wrecker noise. The flatbeds also load and unload vehicles, she said. Laliberte says she wants the city to address the problems. “Enforce the laws,” she said. “This is a residential neighborhood, and we’re listening to a wrecker business, really — that’s what it is.” But the city’s code enforcement officer, Dan Bradstreet, and Carroll’s owner Mike Ouellette, say the men who drive the wreckers and live in the apartment building are on-call and respond to calls for service from there. Ouellette said Tuesday that Laliberte initially complained about wreckers being parked on the street, blocking traffic. Laliberte approached the Planning Board, of which she is a former member, about the issue, which led to the City Council’s enacting rules in August prohibiting trucks weighing a certain number of pounds from parking on the street after 9 p.m. The wrecker drivers now park the wreckers in the apartment building’s driveway. Ouellette said that early on he received calls from police Chief Joseph Massey, Mayor Nick Isgro and city councilors about the matter and made a number of changes in response to Laliberte’s complaints, including reducing the time two wreckers are at the apartment building at the same time. He rejected Laliberte’s complaint that they make a lot of noise. “The two guys work for me, and maybe once or twice a month they might both be on call at the same time,” Ouellette said Tuesday. “The last three nights, we haven’t had one wrecker call after five o’clock. If they get five calls a week at night time, that’s a lot. She just doesn’t want trucks across the road from her.” Ouellette said he feels as if he is being harassed by Laliberte, and if it continues, he may consider taking legal action. “I talked to a lawyer,” he said. “If she just keeps pushing, I’m going to be looking into it.” Laliberte said she and her mother have complained to city officials and Ouellette, but the issues continue. She called the police department in May because the wreckers were revving their engines, she said, and an officer called back more than an hour later and urged her to call when such noise is occurring. The night before Thanksgiving, she called police again to report two wreckers — one was not from Carroll’s — were parked in the middle of High Street around 11 p.m. in violation of state law. The drivers were talking to each other and their trucks were blocking both the road and her driveway, she said, adding that a police officer called her back, but by that time, the wreckers had moved. She said the issues have been going on about two years and she feels that she and her mother, who is 76 and has been paying taxes for many years, should not have to suffer the noise. Both their bedrooms are on the street side of the house, and the trucks wake them up every night, she said. “I hear it, day in and day out, around the clock,” she said. THE CITY’S RESPONSE Bradstreet responded Wednesday in an email that he had not heard anything about the matter since September, when Laliberte sent him a complaint about the wreckers through City Councilor Rick Foss, R-Ward 5. Laliberte said she had reached out to Foss for help. He did not respond to a request from the Sentinel for comment. City Manager Michael Roy referred questions to Bradstreet. Bradstreet included in his email to the Morning Sentinel a series of emails, one of which, dated Sept. 4, is from Foss to Roy. It includes a video from Laliberte showing a wrecker unloading a car on the street Sept. 3. He also attached an email from Laliberte saying it was the third time they had hauled a car there, unloaded it and worked on it. RESOURCE LINK

Does anyone have information regarding this tow truck that was struck last night. The narrative with the images is: Last night we got hit by someone not yelling to flares, lights and road conditions... The punishment should be more serious for the pull over law, our drive was almost killed and he driver of the dodge got a slap on the hand... There is a video floating around of the incident. We are attempting to link to that clip.

As we work on the semi annual roll call I will be searching out Canadian Members from the "Tow411 Past". Possibly they made the leap and I missed it or they don't know we're here. If your name comes up give us a Shout Out. If you know where they are now then tell them we are on the New Force in the Towing and Recovery industry. Dave Jarman Steven Morrison Ivor Dean aka DIVOR I will add a few more every day or so...

The national average at one time was 3 to 7 days to begin the process to send out certified letters. Then 45 days to auction the vehicle to recover costs. Since this varies from state to state and even local regulations I found it difficult to keep up with the legal requirements can change at what seems anytime in some cases. So, I stopped trying... I seem to recall there was a webpage at one time that had some of many of these listed. It may have been Tow Times that did the research in past years.

Thanks for finding the link, such a tragic loss. Though, this wasn't a Tower Down. Similarly, a tow operator had a medical emergency while off duty. He did not survive. Another tragic industry loss, it's sad that many are including these 3 industry deaths in same category as Tower Down which is a Tow Operator Struck or Killed which On Duty. Please do not take this as insensitive to the loss of life.

Richard you bring up a good point. While it is an image to ponder, keeping an open mind without knowing the full story. This happens a lot in the towing industry. I'm going to be clearing images off my phone and this was my oldest image.

Ed, I here you and that is a very good reason for the choice of equipment. Even though it's a V-6 if possible to the pickups from the rear. I say that know there are time it is easier from the front or due to an accident like the Ford Ranger with the fender into the tire as I had last night. When you do tow them from the rear watch the toppers, bed liners, swing out windows and hood air deflector, etc. As for being in the automotive industry for 11 years. While that establishes you, there is still going to be a 2 or 3 year cycle to get into such areas as motor clubs calling. Reps Watch several of the Motor Club forums so we may see more activity during the Motor Club Rankings. Hope that explains my comments as thought's to text does not always convey the intended message.

OK, the bounce isn't really as much as your feeling while driving. I am going to say that your cab over with a 19 or 19'5 bed makes it seem more than it actually is... As long as it's strapped down, there is good oil pan clearance and the shocks on the towed vehicle are good then I would not worry about. Soon you'll get used to the feel and if something changes you'll know it. Not a thing wrong with the cab over, but if you get an opportunity to drive a non cab over you'll feel the difference. Carry On... It takes 3 years to become established many start ups purchase new or nearly new and don't make it past 3 years. Watch that you don't overload the wheel for the Chassis, it's easier to do on a Cab Over. Just curious, did you tow the pick up trucks from the front or back. From the front on that setup there tends to be more shock load. From the rear there generally isn't much weight and they do bounce more. Now as a disclaimer I very rarely driver a carrier/rollback and have not been in a cab over in more than 30 years.

Randall, I have to agree 100% on the becoming lax on the Covid. I hear far too much about tow ops having passengers in the cab with them instead of stressing the need for alternative transportation. I heard a driver say his dispatcher refuses to tell people they have to make other arrangements. He tells the drivers "We're there to service them, you need to take them with you". I wonder what the dispatcher would do being possibly exposed. Back to the original topic, I will run the numbers again later. But, it seems as of right now the counter will change to the next "7" dsys. Ron, what caused the change, a couple of factors with the first being a Full Moon. You ask does the temperature factor in, "Yes and No" since the temperatures vary that would be focusing on certain regions over over regions which may require better math skills as well as a Sheldon White Board. I run the in my head, so encourage safety to 3 or more tow ops this week. Then let us know of any close calls. And once again, wear the mask when around others you are not familiar with. Do not become complacent just because you may not wear it around the shop. Maintain a 3 to 6 foot social distance, the 3 foot is my absolute closest contact. But, if you stick with 6 foot then you have a buffer. Ultimately, what you touch in a customers vehicle, that pen you shared and riding in the cab of the truck together are putting you in more risk then you will ever know. Take Care and May the TowForce be with you. I'll run those numbers again later today and see if I actually need to change this topic title. Again, if you know of a close call or a tow truck stuck left us know. Thanks

I am a numbers guy, not good at math but I can run the numbers. The next 3 days are extremely dangerous. I can sit back and let it ride or I can try to effect the inevitable. In doing so I have a one percent chance of reaching an industry professional not in our membership. So, I will ask that anyone watching this topic preach safety to employees and coworkers. Statistics say we will lose two tow ops before the end of 2020. WE can effect that number, YOU can effect that number! Join me in reminding at least one Tow Op of the Increased Dangers during the Holiday Season. Yeah, I'm weird. But, I've been right in the past... I don't want to be right, effect change with me.

All Day Monday November 30, 2020: Any Member regardless of supporter status can List Equipment in Any Equipment Listing Forum. This is a One Day Event and again Members can create as many Equipment Listings as they have Equipment For Sale. The Listings will remain until Sold or the End of the year. That's our Cyber Monday Deal... Secret: You Can Start Now!

The narrative stated the driver was OK. I don't see how, but if that's what they say I approve the post.

This topic was Originally Created in March of 2015 by Michael McGovern: Do you have a popular cartoon character - TowMater, The Incredible Hulk, etc. - displayed on your tow truck? If so, how was it applied? Decal? Airbrush painted? Photos would be great. Also, have you ever received a "cease and desist" letter from the holder of the cartoon copyright, e.g., Disney or DC Comics? If you prefer to contact me privately, my direct e-mail address is Thanks for your input. Michael McGovern Eds Towing said: Probably one of the most famous in the country is Quality in New York state. Michael Biggs' trucks all have Disney characters in great detail for as long as I can remember. I was told once that he did have permission but couldn't vouch for that personally. We used the D.A.R.E. lion for drug awareness for years but honestly didn't have permission for it. We did do a lot of things to contribute to the program though... Jerrdan John said: Tater was on my truck when I bought it and I left it. It is vinyl decals. Makes the kids smile, I doubt it helps in any way as an advertising piece for us. Tigger on my hood has ridden there for about three years, when I hit 45 his arms come up, so I just claim I am trying to teach him how to fly, it makes the adults smile! He is neither a paint on or a decal, but a stuffed animal. After years of having these, I can honestly say they are no advertisement value to us. Tigger has brought up Winny the Poo as a subject many times from adults. I do it for the smiles and if I was told to remove them by someone with the authority, I would without a problem, but what does it hurt? I had a friend that was crazy about John Deere 4020 tractors. He had a website (4020.com) (No longer running) that had pictures of them with a lot of tech info, but never sold tractors or parts, sort of a 4020 fan site. He received a letter from an attorney from John Deere to remove the leaping deer at the top of the page. He tried to negotiate without any luck, it was remove it or get a lawsuit. goodmichael said: If the character/logo is trademarked and a company is using the logo on their equipment they should have permission from whomever has the rights to the trademark. If someone were using a logo that you created in their business you would have every right to ask them to stop using it or to be compensated. Cartoon characters on equipment, signs, and fences do definitely cause your business to be noticed more than if they were not present. A youngster will be quick to point out a cartoon character to a parent who is driving. The company name might not be remembered, but a potential client might request the company that has the cartoons on their trucks. I believe that the use of these characters adds value to the business. Their presence on the equipment adds depth to the exposure of the business. DodgeTowGuy134 said: I think what some people may be missing here in this post is that it doesn't matter if the actual logo you are using on your truck is copyright or not.. But if the image represents a likeness to the cartoon character that is will where the real concern comes in is because you cannot use the likeness without permission it doesn't matter if you have someone else create the logo it all comes down to using the likeness without permission In Memory of NationalAutow who said: I wasn't going to ask but when will Mike McGovern tell us WHY he wants the info? Is there some big case brewing or will this be the subject of a legalese column? Maybe he is putting together a seminar for New Orleans? goodmichael said: I do not believe that anyone really goes out of their way with the conscious objective or desire to defraud anyone by using a cartoon logo on their service vehicles. Those who do this are, in my opinion are making an attempt to assist people in finding some joy and happiness in the lives of others. They have not undertaken the expense with the intent being that there will be a payoff or gain for their effort. It is done primarily to see children happy. This also can include the child in us adults as well. That being said and established, the characters and logos are indeed someones work and property if they are trademarked/copyrighted. If they are used, the rights of the creator should be respected. If you have cartoon characters, sports team logos to include both collegiate as well as professional level sports teams on your vehicles as part of your logo or graphics of the truck, you need permission. Michael McGovern said: Philip, It is a question I have mulled around in my head for a long time. And, yes, it is the subject of my Legaleze column in the upcoming April issue of Tow Times. As you know, I've been around tow trucks most of my life and I've often wondered about the legality of the copyrighted cartoon characters I have seen displayed on some trucks. And, no, I do not have a pending case. In fact, in 30 years I have never had one of my towing client receive a cease and desist letter from a copyright holder, so I was just wondering about any experiences that Tow411 participants might have had. The legal research on the issue was interesting. Goodmichael is pretty much spot-on with his comments. Permission is required but there are some limited exceptions to the copyright laws. I hope you enjoy my April column. Let me know what you think. Michael McGovern Eds Towing said: I wonder if we need Dunkin Donuts permission to use their logo... BlackAutoload said: ...on a different note, that rope is bright! Eds Towing said: Yea I think my kid likes it cause it's pretty...LoL In Memory of NationalAutow who said: Thanks Mike McGovern. I can't get away from reading just about everything you write. My parents always told me I should have been a lawyer because I enjoy that kind of thing (and I argue a lot). Ed - Please tell me more about your synthetic ropes? how long have you been using them? What are they rated? What kinds of issues or problems have you had etc. I have talked to the vendors at tow shows about them before but have been afraid to try one as a primary service line. I do own one synthetic extension, but have never used it. Eds Towing said: I'll start a thread in equipment or something so as to not hijack Michael's post here. @Michael McGovern @EdsTowing @JerrDan John @goodmichael @BlackAutoload

When I first saw this TikTok, I thought that there was a news topic about it a few months back. While there have been a number of Tree Incidents involving tow trucks over the past year. This is the only one that I could find that was similar.

https://www.cbs42.com/news/local/drivers-urged-to-slow-down-and-move-over-for-emergency-vehicles-during-holiday-travel/

Just 22 Members short of reaching 5000 Members. Not the Goal of 6000 Members, however it is a serious milestone in bringing the message board back to 100%. Actually the Activity Level is higher now than it has been in 10 years. Keep Posting, Keep Responding, Keep It Growing! Happy Thanksgiving! Let's Eat, darn that's tomorrow. Time to check the stove...

Looks like I am sending 4 T-Shirts out this week. Each of you that have responded to this topic will receive a T-Shirt in the mail within the next week. Inbox me your size and mailing address. Thanks for being among the first to participate. Each week we will choose at least one responder to receive a T-Shirt.

Who is having Baltimore Tow Show Withdrawal's this weekend. Of all the shows through out the year this is the one I miss the most. How about you, which show did you mist the most in 2020? Which of this shows will you be attending in 2021? Florida Florida Tow Show 2021 dates: April 8-10 in Orlando, Florida www.floridatowshow.com Maryland American Towman Exposition 2021 dates: November 12-14 in Baltimore, MD www.atexposition.com Nebraska Nebraska Tow Show 2021 dates TBA; Kearney, Nebraska Nevada American Towman ShowPlace (& CTTA Annual Convention) 2021 dates: September 16-17 in Las Vegas, Nevada www.atshowplace.com New Hampshire New Hampshire Tow Show 2021 dates TBA; Hampton, New Hampshire www.nhtowingassociation.org New York Empire State Towing & Recovery Association 2021 dates: June 4-6 in Lake George Village, New York www.estratowshow.com North Carolina North Carolina Tow Truck & Trade Show 2021 dates: September 17-18 in Hickory, North Carolina www.nctowing.org Ohio The Towman Games 2021 dates: June 17-19 in Cleveland, Ohio www.towmangames.com Midwest Regional Tow Show 2021 dates: September 23-26 in Mason/Cincinnati, Ohio www.midwesttowshow.org South Carolina Tower’s Family Retreat & Myrtle Beach Tow Show 2021 dates: May 14-15 in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Tennessee Tennessee Tow Show 2021 dates: October 7-10 in Chattanooga, Tennessee www.tennesseetowshow.com Texas American Towman TowExpo San Antonio 2021 dates: August 6-7 in San Antonio, Texas www.towexpointernational.com Towing & Recovery Management Summit August 2021 (No Dates Announced) www.towsummit.com Wisconsin Wisconsin Towing Association Tow Show & Convention 2021 Wisconsin Dells, WI. (No Dates Announced) https://towing.witruck.org/ This is the complete 2020 Tow Show Schedule and some shows may still be delayed of canceled. Please add updated here!