It is an unfortunate reality that some towing companies continue to use predatory tactics throughout the Charlotte area. And this tactic is as bad as it sounds.
It works like this. Some tow-truck drivers will stake out a crowded area and wait for drivers to make a mistake by parking in a private lot or spot, even if it is for a matter of a couple of minutes. Some of those areas have poorly-displayed signs that warn drivers about parking there. This makes drivers easy prey for unscrupulous towing companies.
Some of those lots will be near convenience stores or coffee shops in the city. A driver may just be running inside to grab a snack, coffee or lottery ticket. And before they can return to their vehicle, they are greeted by a boot. That leads to an actual tow in which drivers are forced to pay exorbitant fees to get their vehicles back.
But some of those property owners are not so innocent. Some actually conspire with towing companies to sneak up on drivers. Consequently, the poorly-displayed “No parking” signs are tactically positioned.
Predatory towing companies also use spotters to carry out unethical tows. People are positioned in a crowded area, near a parking lot designated as “No Parking.” And the moment someone parks there, they notify the nearby tow truck driver, who drives right to that location and tows the vehicle. It is irrelevant how much time has elapsed since the driver stepped out of the car.
Tow truck drivers will hide behind the excuse that it is against the law to park on a private lot. However, there is a lack of ethics involved in this practice and municipalities all over the country are cracking down on predatory towing. However, there has not been significant progress in the state of North Carolina as state laws have limited the level of action that cities and towns can take.
There have even been reports of tow truck drivers removing parking passes and towing a vehicle based on the premise that there was no pass. It all falls under a lack of ethics and with tows on the rise throughout the city of Charlotte, it is important to be aware of where you park.
The good news is there are still towing companies you can trust. Neighborhood Towing prides our business on helping those in need of a tow. For ethical, professional and courteous towing in Charlotte, contact Neighborhood Towing.