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Needing to call a tow when you’re stranded on the side of the road is unfortunate enough, but if you’re not careful, the situation could go from bad to worse. Not all towing companies should be treated the same, and there are more than a few out there that won’t have your best interests in mind. Bolster’s Towing has been a part of the Kalispell, MT, community since 1971. They’ve built their business on customer trust, and their goal is to help you turn your bad luck around. Here are their top tips to avoid a towing scam.

3 Ways to Ensure a Positive Experience With a Towing Company

1. Ask About Hidden Fees

Some towing companies love to advertise prices that are too good to be true. A good rule to follow is if the price they advertise seems too low, ask about hidden fees. The towing company in question could say that emergency towing is only $30, but they don’t tell customers about the additional $3 fee for every mile. Often, there are also administrative and daily storage fees.

2. Avoid Unsolicited Offers

towing companyA tow truck that magically shows up exactly when you need it most may seem like the best of luck, but don’t get too excited. Reputable towing companies refer to people who listen to police scanners and arrive unsolicited on the side of the road as “scanner listeners.” They’ll have you signing papers and agreeing to high costs before you have a chance to think.

3. Ask for Identification

When you’re on the phone with a towing company, don’t hang up without first asking for the driver’s identification. You want to know their name and the license plate on their truck. It’s a common scam for people to arrive, asking simply, “You called for a tow?” as a greeting. You’ll be so relieved to see help you won’t realize until it’s too late they aren’t who you called.

The best way to protect yourself and your finances in the face of a roadside emergency is to do your research before you leave the house. Have the name and number of a reputable towing company written down and stashed in the glove box. Call Bolster’s Towing at (406) 752-4528 when you need a tow truck, or visit their website for more information.

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