Breaking down on the side of the road is stressful enough for anyone, but a semi driver has additional concerns with deadlines and cargo attached. Imagine this: You’re the owner of the semi and call a tow company, expecting the tow truck driver to handle your rig professionally and with care. But what happens when the tow truck driver doesn’t and forgets vital steps before the tow? The consequences can be catastrophic.
Common Types of Tow Truck Damage
Improper towing techniques, such as failing to disconnect the axle shafts or driveline, can cause serious and expensive mechanical damage. A truck that’s pulled without these precautions can cause the transmission to continue to spin without proper lubrication, leading to overheating, grinding, or complete failure. Instead of just dealing with the original breakdown, you now face thousands of dollars in additional repairs caused by the tow itself.
How Towing Can Harm Your Semi
If you believe the tow company damaged your equipment, the first step is to get them to admit fault in writing. Ask for a written statement and request a copy of their liability insurance policy. Reputable companies carry coverage for exactly this type of situation, and having their acknowledgment on record is critical for pursuing a claim.
However, if the tow operator refuses to accept responsibility, don’t stop there. It’s important to hire your own expert mechanic to inspect the truck and document the damage as soon as possible. An independent evaluation performed by a skilled expert can provide the proof you need to hold the tow company accountable.
As a trucker, your equipment is your livelihood. Don’t let negligence from a tow company add unnecessary downtime and repair costs to your business. Protect yourself by gathering proof, insisting on accountability from the at-fault tower, and hire your own expert when they deny liability.
Steps to Take When Damage Occurs
A damaged transmission from improper towing can cost thousands. Protect yourself by following this step-by-step guide:
- Inspect Immediately – As soon as your truck is released, check for transmission or driveline issues. Take photos and videos of any damage.
- Get It in Writing – Ask the tow company to admit fault in writing if damage is suspected or obvious.
- Request Insurance Info – Obtain a copy of the tow company’s liability insurance policy.
- Document Everything – Keep a diary of everything that happened. Note witness contact information, and keep all receipts related to the breakdown, tow, and repair.
- Hire Your Own Expert – If the company denies responsibility, bring in an independent mechanic to confirm how the tow caused the damage. You may need to prove that the reason you needed a tow is not the reason for the additional damage because of the tow.
- Don’t Delay – The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to prove fault and recover costs.
Seek Legal Help – If the tow company or their insurer refuses to pay all of your related expenses, consult a trucking attorney who handles equipment damage claims.
Protect Every Dollar Damaged by Neglect
If your semi was damaged during a tow and it wasn’t your fault, don’t settle for basic repair payments.
Eckert & Associates, P.A. helps truckers hold negligent tow companies accountable. Call (904) 278-7688 or visit DowntimeClaims.com for a free consultation. We’ll fight so you get the full compensation you deserve.