Top Worst Towing Companies in the USA: Ratings, Issues

Top 7 Worst Towing Companies in the USA

In this article, we highlight the top worst towing companies in the USA, their ratings, common issues faced by customers, and answers to frequently asked questions.

1. United Road Towing

• Rating: 1.5/5 (Google Reviews)
• Issues: Overcharging, delayed service, poor customer support
• Overview: United Road Towing has been criticized for its lack of professionalism, with many customers reporting being charged exorbitant fees. Delayed response times and poor customer service are also common complaints, making it one of the most notorious towing companies in the country.

2. AutoReturn

• Rating: 1.8/5 (BBB Rating: F)
• Issues: Unauthorized tows, difficulty retrieving vehicles, rude staff
• Overview: AutoReturn manages towing for multiple cities, but its reputation is tarnished by numerous complaints. Customers have reported unauthorized tows, difficulties in locating and retrieving their vehicles, and unhelpful staff, contributing to its poor reputation.

3. RoadOne Towing

• Rating: 1.4/5 (Yelp)
• Issues: Unprofessional drivers, damage to vehicles, hidden fees
• Overview: RoadOne Towing has been the subject of many negative reviews, primarily due to unprofessional behavior from drivers and allegations of vehicle damage during towing. Customers have also expressed frustration with hidden fees that significantly increase the cost of service.

4. Agero

• Rating: 1.7/5 (Trustpilot)
• Issues: Slow response times, poor communication, billing issues
• Overview: Agero, a well-known roadside assistance provider, has a history of customer dissatisfaction. Many users have complained about extremely slow response times, inadequate communication during emergencies, and recurring billing issues.

5. Calderon's Towing

• Rating: 1.6/5 (Google Reviews)
• Issues: Aggressive towing practices, inflated charges, vehicle damage
• Overview: Calderon's Towing has faced multiple lawsuits over its aggressive towing practices, including allegations of illegal tows and price gouging. Customers frequently report damage to their vehicles and excessively high fees.

6. AAA Towing (Specific Regions)

• Rating: Varies by region, some as low as 1.9/5
• Issues: Long wait times, poor customer service, unreliable service in some regions
• Overview: While AAA is generally respected nationwide, certain regions suffer from poor service. Customers in these areas report long wait times, unhelpful customer service, and a lack of professionalism, leading to regional dissatisfaction.

7. Copart Towing

• Rating: 1.5/5 (Yelp)
• Issues: Poor handling of vehicles, overcharging, unprofessional conduct
• Overview: Copart, primarily known for vehicle auctions, also offers towing services. However, customers have reported poor handling of vehicles during tows, leading to damages. The company has also been criticized for overcharging and unprofessional behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I do if I feel I was overcharged by a towing company?

If you believe you were overcharged, first request a detailed invoice from the towing company. Review it for any discrepancies or unauthorized fees. If you find issues, try to resolve them directly with the company. If that fails, you can file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or your state's consumer protection agency.

How can I avoid being scammed by a towing company?

To avoid scams, always verify the towing company before agreeing to the service. Ask for a quote upfront and ensure it’s documented. Avoid companies with a history of poor reviews and consider using a roadside assistance service like AAA or your insurance provider.

Are towing companies allowed to tow my car without my permission?

Yes, but only under specific circumstances, such as illegal parking, vehicle abandonment, or when instructed by law enforcement. However, unauthorized or predatory towing is illegal, and you can take legal action if you believe your vehicle was towed without just cause.

What are my rights if my car is damaged during towing?

If your car is damaged during towing, you have the right to file a claim against the towing company’s insurance. Document the damage with photos and gather any witnesses if possible. Contact the company immediately and provide evidence of the damage.

Why do some towing companies have such low ratings?

Low ratings often result from consistent issues such as overcharging, poor customer service, long wait times, and damage to vehicles. These companies fail to meet customer expectations and standards, leading to widespread dissatisfaction and negative reviews.

Conclusion

While towing services are vital, not all providers uphold the standards of professionalism and reliability that customers expect. The companies listed above have consistently received poor ratings and negative feedback, making them some of the worst in the industry. When in need of a tow, it's crucial to do your research and choose a reputable company to avoid the frustrations and pitfalls associated with the worst offenders.