Latest news with #ProvincialRoadsideServices
CTV News
30-07-2025
- CTV News
Multiple tow truck companies ‘no longer welcome' on Hamilton streets
Almost 40 charges were laid, 10 tow licenses were suspended or revoked and a number of drivers have been charged as part of a crackdown on 'unsafe tow operators' in Hamilton. The Hamilton Police Service announced the results of their latest initiative, Project Barrier, on Tuesday. 'After a concerning rise in fraud, intimidation and aggressive tactics at collision scenes, the Hamilton Police Service created Project Barrier,' Const. Adam Kimber explained. In total, 29 charges were laid, 10 tow licences were suspended or revoked, nine operators were charged and four companies were banned from operating. Police said the companies that were charged included: Provincial Roadside Services, High Class Recovery, Onsite Towing, Royal Roadside and Recovery Reliable Towing. 'These businesses were found to be causing significant harm in our community. Many are now suspended, or in the process of having their licence revoked permanently in partnership with the Ministry of Transportation,' Kimber said. He also added police are trying to make sure those businesses don't pop up again under a new name. 'These businesses are no longer welcome on Hamilton roads.' What are my rights if I need a tow? The province of Ontario has set out laws governing how tow truck companies can operate and what protections are available to customers. Tow truck operators must have a certificate to do business within Ontario and must show the name of their company and certificate number of all vehicles, consent forms and invoices. Drivers must also be prepared to show a copy of their tow driver certificate upon request. Drivers must consent to a tow, unless the process is initialized by a police officer or other authorized person. For example, a tow truck could be called to remove an illegally parked vehicle. Tow companies must also provide their rates before towing a vehicle and all rates must be posted at their office and on their website. Tow truck drivers also cannot show up uninvited. They could face penalties for soliciting services that have not been requested. A full list of customer rights and tow regulations is available online.
Hamilton Spectator
29-07-2025
- Automotive
- Hamilton Spectator
Hamilton police target predatory tow truck operators in Project Barrier
Hamilton police have laid 39 charges in connection with a project targeting predatory tow operators in the city. Project Barrier was launched in response to an increase in aggressive tow truck operators who overcharge and mislead drivers at collision scenes, Const. Adam Kimber said in a video about the project. The project included increased patrols, surveillance and interventions at crash scenes that police say prevented further frauds. In total, 10 tow licences were suspended or revoked, nine operators were charged. Project Barrier 🚨 Hamilton Police have laid 39 charges, suspended 10 licences, and banned 4 companies as part of a crackdown on aggressive tow operators. You have the right to choose your tow. If you feel unsafe or pressured — call police. #hamont #hamiltonpolice … Police released the names of the following charged tow businesses as a warning to the public: • Provincial Roadside Services • High Class Recovery • Onsite Towing • Royal Roadside • Recovery Reliable Towing 'Scams at the scene of a collision are not only unethical, they're illegal,' Kimber said. Police are reminding the public that if you need a tow truck, you chose the tow operator, ask for a written estimate before anything is moved and confirm where you vehicle is going. Do no sign anything you don't understands and call police if you feel pressured or unsafe. Nicole O'Reilly is a reporter at The Hamilton Spectator. noreilly@ Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
