By Jason Giddens, JB Tow Truck Accessories
In the towing industry, safety and professionalism go hand in hand. I’ve always believed that if you’re going to do something, do it the right way — the safest way. That mindset is what led me to recently partner with the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) to create a series of educational videos focused on one of the most important parts of towing: vehicle securement.
Why I Wanted to Do It
For years, I’ve heard a lot of different answers when asking operators what “legally secured” really means. Everyone had their own opinion — and most of them didn’t match. As someone who’s always taken pride in doing things by the book, that inconsistency bothered me. I wanted real, accurate answers from the people who enforce the laws.
After about six months of reaching out and asking around, I finally connected with Sergeant Meredith from the Florida Highway Patrol. She immediately saw the value in what I was trying to do and helped line up everything we needed to make it happen.
Filming and Education
This couldn’t be a cheaply done iphone or Android video, it had to be quality. I had talked with Darian Weaver, owner of Tow Professional at shows in the past. I recognized his love for family, passion for industry, and his desire to promote safety was much like my own. I contacted Tow Professional and Darian jumped at the chance to bring his film crew 9 hrs. down to Springhill, Fl to capture this on video. Chuck Camp or Video producer filmed Guardian Fleet Services in Spring Hill, Florida, and I can’t thank them enough for their support. They provided two trucks, an excellent facility, and two fantastic, experienced operators who helped us bring these videos to life. Their professionalism and teamwork made the filming process smooth and educational for everyone involved.
Together with FHP, we went over how to properly secure vehicles to tow trucks — what’s legal, what’s not, and what the fines and penalties can be when it’s done wrong. Improper securement can result in fines over $100 per infraction, and in more serious cases, a truck can even be placed out of service until corrected.
The most common problems I see out in the field are worn-out equipment, not enough straps, or no straps at all. These mistakes don’t just risk a ticket — they risk lives, property, and a company’s reputation. I was honestly blown away by how little securement is technically required by law. In my opinion, even what’s considered standard under the law isn’t enough. The legal minimum and the safe standard aren’t always the same, and as professionals, we should always aim higher than the bare minimum.
The Message
My message to every operator is simple: do it right. When you secure a vehicle properly, you keep everyone safer, reduce your company’s liability, and show customers and law enforcement that you take your job seriously. It builds pride, trust, and professionalism across our entire industry.
These videos weren’t made to criticize anyone. They were made to educate, inform, and unite. The more we know, the safer we all become — and that’s something worth towing for.
About the Author:
Jason Giddens is co-founder of JB Tow Truck Accessories in Tampa, Florida — home of the American-made Big Stiffy lockout tool, Fat Boy wheel-lift adapters, and other professional-grade towing products. Learn more at jbtow.com.
