Getting stranded on the side of the road is stressful enough without worrying about scams. Unfortunately, dishonest tow truck operators prey on drivers at their most vulnerable moments—especially after accidents. In Southern California, state officials have even uncovered organized rings that hold vehicles hostage for cash.
At Foglesong Towing, we’ve served the Inland Empire and Southern California drivers for decades. We believe you should know the warning signs of predatory towing so you can protect yourself, your vehicle, and your wallet. Here are the seven most common towing scams in Southern California—and what you can do to avoid them.
1. The “Bandit Tow” Scam
Unsolicited tow trucks show up within minutes of an accident, claiming to be sent by your insurance company or police. They’re monitoring scanners and rushing to hook your car first.
Red Flag: They push to tow your vehicle before you’ve verified who they are.
How to Avoid: Only use a tow truck you or law enforcement requested. Call your insurance or roadside assistance to confirm.
2. Predatory Private Property Tows
Some operators patrol apartment complexes or shopping centers looking for even minor violations, like a car slightly outside the line. They tow vehicles without proper authorization or required signage.
Red Flag: Your car disappears from private property without notice.
How to Avoid: Know California Vehicle Code §22658, which requires signage and written authorization before a private property tow.
3. Bait-and-Switch Pricing
A driver quotes a low fee upfront, then demands hundreds more in hidden charges once your car is hooked or at the yard.
Red Flag: The driver refuses to give a written estimate.
How to Avoid: Always ask for an itemized invoice before authorizing the tow.
4. Forced Repair Shop Scams
The driver insists they must tow your car to a preferred or insurance-approved body shop. Once there, the shop inflates repair costs or holds your vehicle hostage for payment.
Red Flag: You’re told you can’t pick your own shop.
How to Avoid: California law guarantees you the right to choose where your car is repaired. If unsure, have it towed home instead.
5. Fake Tow Companies
Scammers create websites, uniforms, or even logos that mimic legitimate companies. Once they tow your car, they either overcharge or steal it outright.
Red Flag: The tow truck has no company name or refuses to provide ID.
How to Avoid: Verify the company is licensed with the California DMV or call your insurer to confirm the dispatcher.
6. Surprise Storage Fees
Your vehicle is taken to an undisclosed yard, and you’re hit with daily storage fees of $100+ before you can even locate it. In some cases, excessive fees mirror what drivers face when retrieving a vehicle from an impound lot.
Red Flag: The driver doesn’t tell you where your car is being taken.
How to Avoid: Always confirm the exact destination and get it in writing.
7. Illegal Tow Release Refusal
By law (AB 2210), if you return to your car before it leaves the property, the tow truck driver must release it immediately for no more than half the standard fee. Some refuse unless you pay in full.
Red Flag: The driver won’t drop your vehicle, even though it hasn’t left the lot.
How to Avoid: Know your rights and, if necessary, call the police to enforce the law.
What to Do If You’re Targeted
If you believe you’ve been scammed:
- Call local law enforcement.
- File a complaint with the California Department of Insurance at 800-927-4357 or online through the California Department of Insurance website.
- Contact your insurance company to dispute unauthorized charges.
- Keep all receipts, photos, and notes as documentation.
How Foglesong Towing Protects Southern California Drivers
At Foglesong Towing, we do things the right way. Our team is licensed, insured, and trusted by law enforcement agencies across Southern California. We provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees, 24/7 emergency towing you can actually count on, and a modern fleet with flatbed options to safely transport your vehicle. When you need help, don’t leave your car in the wrong hands. Contact Foglesong Towing today for professional, reliable service anywhere in Southern California.