4 Lane Mobile goes from 1 to 6 trucks in just 5 years

Proof that it is possible for new towers to be successful

A common refrain among grizzled veterans of the towing and recovery business is that it must be tough—maybe just barely possible—for new guys to get into the business now. Cost of equipment, cost of insurance, and scarcity of sufficient staff are the solid reasons generally offered to explain why the process is likely to be even more difficult than in the past.

Therefore, it is truly refreshing to see a newcomer to the trade make good in just five years.

4 Lane Mobile, run by husband Chase Lane and wife Tessa, and “assisted” by a three-year-old boy and six-year-old girl, have gone from a mobile roadside service business to two light-duty wreckers and four rollbacks in a little less than five years. Based in Westmoreland, Tennessee, about 30-45 minutes from Nashville, and serving that entire area, they have been both fortunate and rewarded for hard, smart work.

Unlike many who end up in the towing biz, Chase was always most strongly attracted to the mechanical. He was not particularly attracted to the towing side of the business until it became a business imperative. He went to Nashville Auto Diesel College for heavy duty truck and trailer repair. After graduation, he says that he went on to work on trucks, worked in a few different shops around the Nashville area, and then started his own mobile mechanics business. As he said, “It kind of progressed from doing service truck work to doing the roadside service, so we finally went from roadside to doing the towing and recovery work also.”

What Chase fails to mention sometimes is that he began his towing business in the middle of 2020. That is, in the middle of COVID! But he doesn’t really see any effects on his venture from COVID, plus or minus, as he looks back on it.

Reflecting on the whole story, it seems a natural progression, though Chase says it wasn’t really planned out that specifically.

Chase is the first to make the point that his wife is a full partner in his success. “Couldn’t have done it without her. She handles the dispatching, all the electronic stuff that I don’t really understand. As a veteran in the business told me the other day, a business like ours absolutely must have someone very sharp on the administrative side these days.”

When he recounts the buildup of his fleet from zero to six, Chase says that his first truck was a flatbed Freightliner “We kept it for a few years, and then ended up buying a second truck. Got a used F650 flat bed, and then expanded from that. We went from having two trucks, to four trucks, that was kind of a big jump. We bought our first wrecker, that was probably about two years into the whole towing side of things. Took us about two years to get to that point.”

“Not long ago, he adds, “we got two more trucks, so that puts us at six trucks. So, we’re at six trucks now, five drivers, and then me, I keep a truck and run when I can and try to kind of stay local to Westmoreland, handy to the home office.”

With a growing fleet, he takes a brief inventory. Half his fleet is Jerr-Dan, and the Jerr-Dan units he has incline him toward looking that direction as he needs more trucks, and especially as he looks to upgrade to handle more medium and heavy-duty work.

“The Jerr-Dan equipment is basically trouble-free,” Chase says. “Zero down time. The construction especially Is tough, meant to handle the stress we put a vehicle through. And as I said, this will be especially important as we move into heavier duty work.”

It is hard to grow a fleet without operators though. And interestingly, Chase gives a lot of credit to the fact that he tricks out his trucks with custom wraps. “These are trucks that guys want to drive. If they’ve got a choice, they’ll drive mine. Plus, we take good care of them. Any report of mechanical problems, and we get it fixed right away. We try to treat them fair and make it easy for them to come to work every day.”

The first five years of towing and recovery for 4 Lane Mobile LLC have been pretty rosy. As more subdivisions are built all around him, and Nashville itself continues to grow, Chase is anxious to see what kind of story we’ll be telling in 2030 at his 10-year anniversary.

Lanes Towing Accessories New Product Launch

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The Trailer Recovery Plate is an innovative tool designed to streamline and enhance the safety of recovering, loading, and unloading bumper pull trailers.

This product addresses common issues faced during trailer operations, such as the risk of damaging wiring when using straps or chains and the challenge of keeping the trailer aligned.

By allowing users to attach the correct size ball to the recovery plate and connect it directly to the trailer hitch, the Trailer Recovery Plate ensures that the trailer is hooked up to the center point, preventing it from pulling in unwanted directions.

Lane’s Towing Accessories
Call Today:740-221-2614
Lanesauction@yahoo.com

Towing Best Practices….Equipment Hauling

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Hauling equipment often goes hand in hand with the towing operations. Just like towing a vehicle, it is important to implement best practices when hauling equipment.

Ensuring the load height is within legal and safety limits is crucial when hauling loads. Failing to adhere to these requirements can lead to accidents, fines, or damage to infrastructure such as bridges and overpasses.

Here’s a quick guide on the best practices for measuring and documenting load height before departing.

Accurately measure the height of a load with reliable tools:

Measuring poles: These telescopic poles are designed for easily measuring tall loads.
Laser measuring devices: These provide precise and quick measurements.
Tape measures: While basic, a tape measure can be effective for smaller or more straightforward loads.

Measure from the Ground

Always measure the height from the ground level to the highest point of the load. This ensures an accurate reading, as the trailer’s base height might vary depending on the terrain or truck.

Double-Check the Load’s Stability

Before measuring, ensure that the load is secured and stable. An unbalanced load can shift during transit, increasing the risk of accidents or miscalculating height due to shifting materials. Secure the load with appropriate straps or netting.

Document the Load Height

Record the measurement: Include the exact height in documentation or transport logs (i.e Towbook). If multiple loads are being carried, each load’s height must be recorded.
Capture photos: Take clear photos of the load and the measuring process. These can serve as evidence in case of disputes or inspections by authorities.
Update the shipping manifest: Include the load height in the manifest or any official documentation handed over to the driver or hauling company.

Check your route and Comply with Legal Height Limits

Familiarize yourself with the legal load height limits for the regions you travel through. In most U.S. states, the maximum height limit for vehicles is 13 feet, 6 inches, although this can vary by location. Check for any special permits required for oversized loads.
If your height exceeds the legal limits, obtain the appropriate permits for oversized, over height, over width loads.

Recheck Before Departure

Trust, but verify. Perform a final check right before the hauler departs. Environmental factors such as uneven ground or a slight load shift may occur during the loading process. Rechecking minimizes risk and ensures compliance.

Conclusion

Measuring and documenting load height is not just about following the law; it’s about safety and protecting both the driver and other road users. By using proper tools, ensuring stability, and maintaining thorough documentation, your team can ensure compliance and safety of your team and others on the roads.

Zips New Products

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EZ Claw Line Saver Kit

Protect your semi’s hoses with the right setup from EZ Claw

The EZ Claw Line Saver is your solution for long-term support of air hoses, power cords and hydraulic lines on tractor-trailer combinations. This road-tested system relies on coiled tensioners, weather-resistant components and zinc-plated brackets to prevent lines from sagging, dragging and chafing. EZ Claw offers five different equipment applications and features bracketry to fit most makes and models out on the road today. Find your kit at Zips.com/EZClaw. Our fitment guide will make sure you have the right parts for your semi.

Grote 6 Diode HINVII LED Directional Light

The 6 Diode HINVII LED Directional Light by Grote is an invisible light that illuminates hi-vis material and fills in dark spots. This turns your hi-vis material and bright-colored clothing into active safety devices by making them stand out in dark and low-light environments. Because it’s invisible, it does this without blinding workers and surrounding traffic.

In addition to its safety benefits, the 6 Diode HINVII LED is highly durable. Its polycarbonate base, finish and lens offer superior impact resistance. Learn more about this advanced lighting technology at Zips.com.

SafeAll Armor Angles

SafeAll’s new poly corner protectors will save your straps.

The Armor Angle from SafeAll is a new poly corner protector for use when uprighting semi trailers. Safer and wider than traditional angle iron, these L-shaped plates protect recovery straps from sharp, jagged edges and add structural integrity to compromised trailer roofs and walls. Each poly angle is 3/4” thick and machine welded for extreme durability and strength. The edges are rounded to prevent snags, and one side features three holes for grip and two for foundry hooks. Choose from two lengths (47″ or 72″) at Zips.com. Item #: SA-AA.

Stellar 8 Drawer Toolbox Systems

Organize your shop or truck with Stellar toolboxes.

Spend less time looking for tools and more time making the repair with Stellar storage systems from Zip’s AW Direct. Keeping everything together, these multi-drawer units can be installed on a service truck or wrecker body and can also be used in a shop environment. They have great capacity ratings and premium upgrades, including locking T-handles, risers and custom paint. Stellar’s 8-drawer system is one of our best sellers and can be ordered online at Zips.com. Select the dimensions you need by entering Item #: AE8DRAWERBOX.

The Lack of Electric Towing Trucks Threatens California Freeway Service Patrol Programs

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State’s Electric Engine Mandate is Depleting Inventories of Truck Chassis

August 14, 2024 (Bay Area, CA): Due to California’s electric engine mandate, a coalition of towing and recovery truck manufacturers and drivers are concerned that starting this year, they must start replacing their diesel trucks with electric alternatives that manufacturers are not building. The lack of electric truck chassis will impact the state’s Freeway Patrol Service, a state and local program that contracts towing companies to provide free services to motorists stranded on California freeways, reducing time stuck in traffic, fuel, and engine emissions.

Due to the CARB’s passage of the State’s Advanced Clean Truck (ACT) regulation, towing and recovery trucks will no longer be assembled or sold in California once 2024 truck inventories are depleted. Truck manufacturers have not developed electric truck chassis that meet towing and recovery truck performance and safety requirements, and towing companies can’t purchase diesel-powered trucks built before January 2024. This catch-22 threatens small businesses, jobs, and motorists.

“The FSP program provides fantastic public service by assisting stranded motorists and clearing California freeways quickly, often mitigating the risk of secondary accidents,” said Brian Banks, owner of Great American Road Solutions. “Without access to new trucks, not only is my business at risk, but so are motorists, especially those who cannot afford roadside assistance.”

Banks is a second-generation business owner that provides towing services to over 500 Bay Area motorists daily. Eight trucks are contracted with the Metropolitan Transport Commission’s Freeway Service Patrol (MTC).

As the number of trucks in service declines, Freeway Service Patrol (FSP) programs will find it increasingly difficult to contract with towing and recovery companies. FSP tow trucks roam freeways, clearing traffic accidents at no cost to motorists. State and local transportation agencies credit the program for reducing wasted time in traffic and fuel costs and lowering tons of carbon emissions. The Freeway Service Patrol (FSP) is a joint program provided by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), the California Highway Patrol (CHP), and local transportation agencies. The State finances 75% of the service, and local government 25%.

“The state is putting towing and recovery businesses that provide a valuable public service in a tough spot by requiring them to purchase custom, high-performance electric tow trucks that manufacturers are not building,” said Mark Yebra, co-owner of Atlas Towing. So, as truck fleets age, they can’t be replaced, putting emergency services at risk.”

Yebra is a second-generation business owner. Atlas Towing has been in business since 1920, providing emergency services to over 200 Bay Area motorists daily, and 7 trucks are contracted with MTC to provide FSP services.

Since public safety agencies widely view towing and recovery trucks as emergency vehicles, CARB exempted government-owned towing and recovery vehicles. The exemption was not applied to privately owned tow and recovery trucks for unknown reasons. Paradoxically, the regulations allow existing trucks to be replaced by older, higher-emission diesel trucks purchased out-of-state. However, this is problematic for FSP programs requiring low-mileage trucks at enrollment.

Benefits of California Freeway Patrol Services

Statewide

16,576,262 gallons of fuel savings
9,642,968 hours motorists saved from sitting in traffic
145,702,066 kg of emissions savings

Bay Area

Metropolitan Transport Commission’s Freeway Service Patrol (MTC)

2,429,063 gallons of fuel savings
1,413,067 hours motorists saved from sitting in traffic
21,327,173 kg of emissions savings

The coalition has launched a website where small businesses, truck drivers, and motorists can join a grassroots campaign to urge Governor Newsom and the State Legislature to find a legislative solution before existing inventories of new towing and recovery trucks are depleted. For more information and to view an explainer video, visit www.casaferoads.com/fsp-program/

Choosing Your Software Partner: It’s More Than Just the Application

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By TRAXERO

Video pickup: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEoUtNsFiPQ

It’s undeniable that software is a critical business requirement for towing, recovery, and roadside assistance professionals in the modern age. While it is possible to run your business using pen and paper methods, to truly unlock your full business growth opportunity, you need the proper digital tools to handle the heavy lifting.

Having the right software in place will help you organize your daily operations while reducing errors that cost you money or customers, ensure you are billing and collecting payment on the hard work you and your team have already completed. It also allows you to monitor your business performance and report on the data that matters most in order to find areas to increase revenue, reduce expenses, and maximize efficiency.

When exploring the right software options for your business’ needs, it is just as important to select the right vendor as it is to choose the right application. In fact, rather than simply being a vendor, your software provider should act as your partner.

We get it, change is hard!

New technology can be intimidating, especially when it affects your entire business operation and all your employees. Even the process of considering and evaluating software options can be daunting and leave you questioning if you are finding the right solution for your business’ unique needs.

That is where your software partner should put you and your team at ease and give you confidence that you are finding the exact solutions needed. But that’s not to say they should just sell you on a product; your potential partner should ask questions to fully understand your business and guide you to the solution that best aligns with your business functions and needs.

And once you have found the right solution, it is important that your software partner makes it as easy as possible to onboard your new business tool and continually work with you to ensure you are maximizing its use.

Onboarding and support set the tone

Now that you have selected your new software, executed the agreements, and been assigned your Customer Success Manager, your journey really begins.

Your Customer Success team should provide you with a roadmap of what training will look like, the roles from your company that should be involved in each session, and how long the process will take to complete before you and your team are comfortable enough to take complete ownership. Sure, you can jump right in and try to use your software, but why not let experts who have built the product and know it inside and out show you the ropes?

This onboarding time is also a great opportunity to establish a relationship with your primary contacts for Customer Success and Customer Support and allow your team to feel empowered to ask questions and ensure their individual roles are set up for success by using your new software.

Demand continuous innovation

Beyond your initial onboarding and ongoing support, you should expect and demand your software partner to provide nonstop innovation. Whether that is integrating the latest technological advancements or simply listening to your feedback and implementing change based on user requests, a flexible and responsive partner can be the catalyst for success and business growth.

When you can do your job better, safer, and more efficiently, you will exceed your customers’ expectations, which is always a recipe for success.

Your partner is a source of knowledge

A true partner will not only empower you with their software to run your business, but they will also provide you with ongoing resources to bring the industry together to continue learning and advocating for one another.

The towing industry certainly can be quite competitive, but more often than not, professionals across this industry enjoy coming together to share stories, help one another deepen their knowledge, and celebrate the common bond of being roadside heroes.

Our industry trade shows provide perfect opportunities to gather and swap stories in person, but those are limited to a few times per year, and it is difficult and expensive for your entire team to also participate. This is where your software partner can be the facilitator of additional opportunities for the industry to collaborate, especially digitally through webinars, social media communities, and on-demand content like videos and articles.

But remember, a partnership is a two-way street

While you want to always hold your software provider to a high standard, it is important to remember that a true partnership goes both ways.

To maximize your training, you need to make your team available for sessions, ensure everyone remains engaged, and encourage your team to ask questions constantly. You and your employees should try to build and maintain a strong rapport with your Customer Success and Customer Support teams. When you know your partner well, they will be just as invested in understanding your business and guiding you to maximize the output of your software.

Like anything in business and life, the more effort you put into it, the more you will take away, and that will be critical to the growth and long-term success of your business.

Increase Productivity and Deliver an Engaging Experience with Towbook

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By Kendall Smith and Matt Wesley

As the use of technology continues to rise in the towing and roadside industry, so do consumer expectations. With the ability to use advanced technology at your fingertips, your customer expects to be informed and cared for every step of the way. Using Towbook creates this experience by doing the work for you!

Towbook not only promotes continuous communication with your customers, but also with your motor clubs, body shops, dealerships, police departments, and private property managers too!

Got a call from the motor club? Accept it with the click of a button!
Does your body shop or dealership want to send you a job? Our Web Request Portal can help them do exactly that with just a few clicks!
Impress your police departments with “Vehicle Lookup” technology that allows them to quickly see if a certain vehicle is on your lot!
Give private property managers a login to their account, so they can view all vehicles that were towed and sign for them as well!

All of the above actions and more, allow you and your staff to reduce time on the phone and maximize your performance and efficiency.

So, what does Towbook do? And why do you need it?

Improved Communication. Managers and dispatchers can communicate with drivers easily. Drivers can accept calls with all the details needed in order to do their job efficiently and update the status of the job from start to finish. You will also be able to chat with your drivers via their mobile applications or send them a text message to make them aware of last-minute changes (chat logs are always saved to the call for future reference).

Roadside.io Towbook’s Roadside.io solution, paired with our Customer Survey feature, delivers the latest customer experience capabilities to your fingertips, allowing you to provide an “Uber-like” experience for your customers.

With Roadside.io, you have the option of sharing information with customers while the service is in progress; helping customers understand what’s happening with their service without having to call you for an update. You also have the option of sending the customer a satisfaction survey once the job is complete. You can choose to push these surveys to your website and you can also direct them to your social media outlets where they can complete a review about the service they received.

Minimize Risk of Damage Claims. Drivers can upload photos of the vehicle to a call in real-time; we timestamp and geocode these photos for you along with categorizing them according to what job status the driver was in at the time. An additional precaution can be taken by creating a “Vehicle Damage Form” if there is extensive damage to the vehicle prior to servicing it. The driver can create a report on scene, take photos of the vehicle, indicate anywhere there is damage, and have the customer sign off on the damage form. This report will be saved for future reference and can even be emailed or sent via text to the customer with their receipt.

Built-in Navigation and GPS Tracking. You’ll be able to get turn-by-turn directions to your destination right in the application with just a tap!

If you aren’t currently using a GPS solution, Towbook is equipped with built-in GPS tracking which will automatically update the drivers’ location according to their app settings.

Towbook is also integrated with leading GPS companies like AT&T Fleet Complete, Azuga, DriverLocate, Samsara, US Fleet Tracking, Verizon Connect, and Webfleet Solutions; allowing you to send calls directly to the GPS unit in your truck.

Drivers can use the GPS unit to navigate to the service location, and when they update the status of the call on the GPS unit it will automatically update their status in Towbook. Your Towbook app can also use the GPS location from your trucks and display that on the map in Towbook. There are many other fantastic features of GPS units that help you manage and maintain your fleet.

Pre-Trip Inspection Management and User Check-In. If you want your team to inspect their trucks and other equipment before (or after) every shift, they can do that easily using the Towbook mobile apps and our Equipment Inspection tool. Each inspection report is time stamped, and managers will receive an email alert any time there is an Equipment Inspection failure.

Completed inspections are also available to open/view on mobile apps, so if drivers need to present a completed pre-trip inspection to a law enforcement officer they can do so right from their phone!

Our “User Check-In” feature allows drivers to check-in and out for work directly from their mobile application. This allows managers and dispatchers to know who is currently on-shift to accept jobs. You are also able to run a report to review check in/check out times for drivers.

Plate-to-VIN Technology. No VIN – no problem! Towbook’s plate-to-VIN feature saves time and eliminates mistakes. Simply enter the plate number and the state in which the vehicle is licensed, and Towbook will return the full VIN with the make, model, and year of the vehicle. You’ll also have the option of using our VIN scanner, which will populate the VIN in the call just by scanning the vehicle’s barcode.

Private Property Features. Alongside tagging accounts, two of our most notable private property features for the mobile applications include “On Scene Call Creation” and “Stickering”:

On Scene Call Creation: This allows your drivers to do their job as quickly as possible by allowing them the option to create a call by simply snapping a picture of the vehicle; the call will automatically populate the address they’re located at and will allow them to update any additional details later.
Stickering: One of Towbook’s fastest-growing features is our Stickering app. With Stickering, you can create a virtual sticker in Towbook and “tag” those vehicles that you might be able to tow after a few hours or a few days. When the sticker expires, you receive a notification that the vehicle can be towed.

Impound/Storage Lot Management and Vehicle Lookup. You’ll be able to track and release your current impounded/stored vehicles on your lot right from the mobile application. You’ll even be able to send the impound invoice via text or e-mail.

In using our “Vehicle Lookup” technology, your customers, police departments, and private property accounts will thank you! It makes it simple for them to look and see if you have a certain vehicle on your lot without calling.

Digital Dispatching. Whether you are a dispatcher or manager sending out calls or an owner/operator working in the field, you’ll be able to accept motor club calls while out of the office or on the road using Towbook’s mobile apps. Towbook is integrated with all the major motor clubs for your convenience! A couple of taps to accept the call and you’ll be on your way!

Paperless Invoicing. Save time by texting or emailing your customer an invoice right on-scene! If paper invoices are a must, we integrate with Zebra mobile printers to print your customers’ receipt on the spot.

Additional Information. On top of the many features we’ve already mentioned, your drivers will be able to add additional information to the call via their app according to the preferences setup by management, this includes:

Additional line items/charges.
Record payments received in the field.
Collect customer signatures for archiving and appearing on receipts.
Any additional notes regarding the service or customer.
Record vehicle odometer.
Add any company expenses, such as fuel along with a picture of the receipt for manager review.

Technology is causing a world-wide evolution and it’s important to find resources that can be of benefit to us. First it was computers, now it’s a little device in our pocket that we all rely on daily – whether for business or our personal lives.

Using software to manage your business increases efficiency and profitability but it’s also a great tool to woo potential clients; demonstrating that you are a forward-thinking towing/road service company and are interested in adapting to the ever-changing technological environment.

About Towbook

Towbook has become the unquestioned leader in cloud-based towing software, headquartered in Michigan, and has provided service for over 16 years. Integrating the industry’s most advanced and flexible software, Towbook supports all sizes and types of towing, recovery and roadside service operations.

We provide tools made possible by the latest technology, and we help companies to raise their level of service while lowering their operating costs.

Plus, our commitment to you will be never-ending! We take great pride in having the industry’s best customer support. Support is free and available 24/7/365—even on holidays.

Tow Professional Offer

Free Trial, Free Setup, Free Support.

Towbook offers a 90-day free trial for all Tow Professional subscribers, simply scan the QR code or visit: www.towbook.com/signup/towprofessional to use this offer!

Website: www.towbook.com
Inquiries: sales@towbook.com
24/7/365 Customer Support: (810) 320-5063

Carrot or the Stick?

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If you have been a parent, a coach, a manager or in really any type of leadership role, you have been faced with the age old question. The Carrot or the Stick? How do you get the person in question to follow directions and or behave the way you need them too? How do you judge their activity,or do you just have a zero tolerance policy and rule with an iron fist?

In the towing industry, the proper way to work with drivers can be tricky. You want them to drive correctly for many reasons. Maybe it’s to take better care of your equipment because repairs and replacements are expensive, to reduce complaint calls and make sure you keep a positive image in your community as a responsible business.Perhaps it’s to reduce accidents, fuel costs, maintenance costs, insurance costs and as my mom used to say, “because I told you too” or “because I said so”!

When they aren’t doing well, what is your recourse?

The Stick

Berating or firing anyone who doesn’t listen can cause other issues. Good operators aren’t always easy to find and are expensive to train, get certified and this can turn into an endless cycle messing with your company’s culture. It’s not fun to run or work at a business where you are constantly walking around with your boot up someone’s backside. Nor is it an enjoyable feeling like someone is watching you so closely that every little thing you do wrong, someone is going to jump down your throat.

The Carrot

At Azuga, we have developed a part of our software called the driver rewards program for just this reason, and it works like a charm. If you are using Azuga you can access this page, and it gives you a report card on every driver scoring them like you would in school. 100-90 is an A, 89-80 B, 79-70 C, 69-60 D, and you guessed it, 59 and below is an F.

The way the grading system works is it takes into account speeding events and severity, harsh braking events, harsh steering events and other driving events. You, as the business owner, can give weight to issues that may be more important to your business. So, it measures it in a way that specifically fits your business needs.

You can click on that driver’s score, and it will spell out the biggest issues they are having, and if you click down one more you can see the specific driving events that they have had during the grading period. This is very handy for driver meetings and training to use in a manner that will help them “improve their score”.

Now for the fun part. You, as the owner, can load money directly into the page to reward drivers. You can do it as a contest for the top 3 drivers or anyone who scores over an 85, or however you want to set it up. Azuga’s drivers reward program will keep up with all the data, drivers can check their scores at any time on their app, or you can even set up a TV in the drivers lounge with the updating standings.

Winners are notified on the app, and they can claim the reward directly from there in the form of a bunch of different gift cards, such as: Visa cards, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Walmart, Longhorn Steaks or hundreds more.

No solution is perfect. With Azuga you can get the data to do either the Carrot or the Stick. However, research says the Carrot works!

Women In the Industry

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Don’t get excited that I’m writing this article too because I am only substituting for this issue. The regular writer of this column is Michelle Sukow who was just gifted with two beautiful grand babies. What a sweet reason for her to miss writing this issue. So, I’m filling in this month.

My favorite woman in this industry is without a doubt, Gay Rochester who is President and CEO of INA Towing Network. I have my reasons, but I decided to ask several ladies how they feel about Gay. Happy to help with my request, Cynthia Martineau responded with how she feels about Gay. You’ll remember that Cynthia Martineau is the Executive Director of TRAA, a group in which Gay is very much involved. Here’s what she said. “INA Towing Network (INA) and Gay Rochester are committed to supporting the mission of the Towing and Recovery Association of America, Inc. (TRAA). INA Towing Network is a dedicated sponsor of our annual TRAA Legislative Action Workshop & Hill Day in DC, TRAA’s legislative advocacy and our lobbying efforts. Gay and INA are passionate about promoting roadway safety for all traffic incident management responders.

TRAA recently partnered with Randy Meyer Race Team to promote a National Slow Down Move Over Campaign. TRAA is pleased to have INA as a sponsor of the Randy Meyer Race Team and this important campaign. Together we can increase slow down move over awareness to the motoring public and legislators on a grander scale. We are all excited to be a part of this national campaign.

Gay also serves on the TRAA Cabinet as well as the WTRAA Board. Her dedication to all things towing is admirable and inspiring. TRAA appreciates Gay and INA’s support of our association and the towing community.”

After I spoke to Cynthia Martineau, I also reached out to Linda Unruh. All of you know Linda and about her son, Bobby being killed in 2017 by a tractor-trailer while trying to guide all vehicles over. The Slow Down, MOVE Over Law is different today in New Mexico because of the strength of this wonderful woman. So, I asked Linda about our friend, Gay Rochester, and here’s what Linda had to say about Gay.

Gay Rochester is a trailblazing leader in the towing industry, recognized as a giant for her unwavering commitment to supporting the “Slow Down, Move Over” initiative across all 50 states. This initiative aims to protect roadside workers by encouraging drivers to slow down and change lanes when approaching emergency or roadside assistance vehicles. Gay has been instrumental in promoting this cause, offering her support to those who have suffered loss and pain in the industry. Her leadership is defined by her selflessness, always putting the welfare of her fellow industry workers first, and tirelessly advocating for their safety. Through her efforts, the importance of protecting roadside workers has gained national recognition.

Gay is known not only for her leadership but also for her deep belief in the value of the women of the industry and its people. She is an unwavering supporter of Bobby’s Law, which reinforces the “Over One Lose None” “Slow Down, Move Over” laws, particularly Gay’s passion for the industry and the people in it is evident in her continued dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of roadside workers. She embodies the spirit of the industry, always leading by example and being the first to stand up for the people who keep the roads safe. Her influence and impact continue to shape the future of towing and roadside assistance, making her a true giant in the field.

As I finish this article about my dear friend Gay, across the television listening areas we’re hearing about the damage created by Hurricane Helene. We’re sad to say it has caused so many deaths in our country. Gay Rochester is very active with the Red Cross. The recent, damaging Hurricane Helene has hurt lots of families. I know that Gay would want me to add additional information because besides doing all their towing, she is always raising money for the Red Cross. If you would like to help in anyway, go to Red Cross.org, see how and where they need help or donate whatever you can to help. Any amount, big or small helps to aid families affected by Hurricane Helene. On behalf of Linda, Gay and me, thank you!

See you on the next podcast.

Show Season…A busy and trying time in 2024

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September was a blur with 3 Tow Association shows, and a Hurricane that left destruction across the southeast! This year we had the North Carolina, Ohio Midwest Regional, and Tennessee Tow shows all in one month! Let’s face it, the association shows are a lot of fun, they fund legislation, offer training, memberships, and help fuel the same industry we pull from. We are proud to be able to support the Ohio, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida PWOF shows. Their presence in the industry helps tremendously!

Dan Messina provides us with some Insightful Talk on the importance of Training and reminds us of the legends teaching now, that are impacting our industry! DJ Harrington’s Fuel for Thought in this issue focuses on a celebrating the Tow Professionals that have fallen serving this great Industry. In this installment of Women of Towing we highlight Gay Rochester and her commitment to industry and safety.

In this issue, we feature Towing Software, Lockout Tools, and a wide array of products from the great folks at Zips! We take an in-depth look at towing software from Towbook, Traxero, Azuga, and Ranger SST. We hope this insight helps you find the solution that best fits your business.

Tow Professional Podcast is available anywhere you find your favorite podcast, or on www.towprofessional.com. We pray for the loved ones from the Coast, Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Ohio that have been impacted by this hurricane. May God be with you all, and bless and keep you through this all.

Thanks for your loyalty to our publication, and our men and women’s heart of service!

Zips Lockout Tools

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Showcase Editorial

Each lockout job presents unique challenges, making it essential to have the right equipment on hand. Beyond your primary tools, the accessories you carry play a critical role in solving various problems you may encounter. Accessories such as paint protection, lights, replacement tips, cases and extenders make great additions to every lockout kit.

Paint Protection
Protecting the vehicle’s paint and trim from damage should be a top priority. Unfortunately, lockout tools can easily cause scratches or scuffs on a vehicle’s surface. Accessories like tape and protective shields act as safeguards, ensuring the vehicle remains undamaged during the unlocking process. By using these protective measures, you also minimize the risk of being accused or held liable for any damage, enhancing your professionalism.

Lighting Solutions
Proper lighting is another way to avoid damage. Clear visibility inside the vehicle helps reduce the chances of mistakes or scratches. Additionally, it helps you get the job done quicker as you can see where everything is. This means you can move on to the next job faster, increasing your earnings. With that in mind, a reliable light source is a worthwhile addition to any lockout kit.

Replacement Tips
Lockout tools are often prone to losing their tips, making replacement tips a must-have in your kit. These tips not only serve as a backup but also provide an additional level of grip, ensuring you can maintain control and precision throughout the job. Keeping extras on hand helps avoid delays and ensures you’re always prepared.

Extenders
Vehicle models vary in size and design, and extenders are the perfect solution to accommodate these differences. By increasing the reach of your tools, extenders allow you to work on a broader range of vehicles without needing to invest in specialized tools for each job. This versatility allows you to handle more calls, expanding your earning potential.

Tool Storage
With a growing collection of tools and accessories, organization is crucial. These cases are designed to store and protect your equipment, ensuring everything is in its place and ready for use. Staying organized reduces downtime spent searching for tools and maximizes your time spent on the job.

With these essential accessories in your lockout kit, you can approach each job with confidence, efficiency and professionalism. Visit Zips.com to add some of these valuable tools to your collection.

www.zips.com

Who Will Train in 2028?

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I just realized that I keep bringing up future problems. In the past, I have talked about things that you’ve probably wondered about yourself. Things like, “Where are you going to find your drivers in the future?” Maybe, “Our gas prices keep going up.” Perhaps its equipment, “I can’t find trucks.” Or a customer problem, “Customers expect too much.”

I really feel our next problem will be finding trainers to train the drivers you can’t find. One of the associations in Texas, that has trained towers in Texas every 2 weeks, had a major accident and will be sidelined from not only training, but towing as well. This will hurt the towers of Texas because that trainer was a great trainer.

While in Alabama, I attended a training session. The instructor was the best in the towing industry. So, I was excited because I got to watch this instructor do his ‘thing’ for tow companies that showed up from all over the U.S.

During a break I went to the table of a few young towers and asked what they thought of the class. They paused a moment but said they did not understand half of what the instructor was saying. The class continued, and as I listened to this instructor, I realized the generation gap between the instructor and today’s tower was quite confusing.

There are a variety of training needs to meet the older and younger tower. The training between heavy duty and other means of towing are also different. You have different kinds of trucks that require different types of training. Technology manufactures new trucks that require different types of skills that today’s tower might not be able to adjust to easily.

Electric vehicles require different towing. There are video training programs which don’t include instructions, showing how to tow electric vehicles. Who is training the trainer on these new types of tows? This question is important because some owners of these small tow companies don’t understand what is needed for their drivers.

As new training courses are being developed the trainer must consider the following questions:

Will I have to travel?
What will it cost?
How long should the course be?
What materials should be taught?
What students will attend the class?
Who will pay for the class?

When I ran my company, we did private property only. However, it was hard to find an instructor who really knew towing business that could teach the class. I have not looked to see what is out there today, but there are many things to consider. As we worry about trainers, we must consider who the students might be. I’m not sure the old-time trainers have the patience to work with the new tower. I don’t want to offend the tower of today, but I talked to tow companies who told me the troubles they are having with their drivers. They’re concerned with things like:

Will they work shifts?
Will they be on call?
Will they travel to a class?
How much will they want to travel?
Do they really want to learn new techniques?

Let’s talk about the tow companies. Can they afford to lose a driver for a day and the money he could make? Can they afford to send drivers to classes because of the cost it takes to send a driver to training? If the educational materials are good and will teach drivers something new, then the tow company will send drivers. The instructor faces the problem of finding course materials that apply to today’s towing.

Trade shows offer training to an industry, but many times it might only apply to the things for that state. Some of the shows don’t work together for training. They want their trainers to train at their shows only, which hurts the industry. As an industry, we continue not to work with each other. Some tow companies don’t get along with other tow companies, and the industry media doesn’t get along, while some associations don’t like to work with other associations. When I owned my tow company, I was a member of the national association, and I went to them to get help with some testing materials they had for the industry. They told me they are offering it to the other association in the state and would not help me. Towers, until our industry starts working together, we will continue to face problems.

Here’s what training might look like in the future:

“On-the-job” training. As one tower is performing the tow, another tower will watch and learn. In this case, you must make sure the tower teaching is doing it right and teaches what you want the student tower to learn.
Powered personalized learning. A trainer will look at the student and identify strengths and weaknesses and create content to meet the learner’s needs. One size fit all does not work anymore.
Training will be set up like a game where you set up a point system, and reward points and competitive elements that motivate the student. This game approach will establish critical thinking, teamwork, and strategic planning.
The trainer will have to determine if the student is having trouble focusing or experiencing overload which will require adjustments to the class.
The material will be set up in small portions so the material can be consumed in short bursts. Training on wheels will allow classes to be held on demand in locations necessary.
The trainer will have to set up ways to identify if the students are learning anything.
Some training classes will be set up remotely for the trainer to teach material while a tow is taking place. Training classes can be simulated in an emergency environment where coordination and communications are key.

Editors Note!!

Dan mentioned future needs for this industry. So, let me share with our readers that you have the American Towing & Recovery Institute with Wes Wilburn. He does EV training and does lots of cross-training with Ron Moore, one of the most famous and well-known firefighters in the world. How about John Hawkins and the legendary, Tommy Luciano from Miller Industries? Don’t forget Shane Coleman from ERSCA. They also do EV training and have a train-the-trainer program. Remember, Wreck Master. And, how about Brian Riker, the D.O.T. Guy and his podcast?

Let us not forget the speaker/trainer world-wide for EV products, the one and only Daylan Zartman from Energy Security Agency. Also, from Jerr-dan created for Operators by Operators, we have Jerr-Dan on our podcast. Always great training. We just named a few of the best that will take this industry into the future.

Remembering Towers Who Gave Their Lives For The Industry

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Losing someone can be unnerving to any family member that you love. Moreover, losing them to a senseless accident makes a person rethink what happened. And “what-ifs” emerge as if the accident could somehow have been stopped. Within our industry alone, we have had so many good people that were lost due to the dangerous job we do for the public. Sometimes the public realizes their responsibility but sometimes they don’t. I would like to take this opportunity to talk about several people that we’ve lost over the years. That was our intention at the recent, 2024 Midwest Regional Tow Show, to mention our industry loss. At this convention, the Thursday night event was an evening of remembrance for those that attended the Family Towing Affair in the Celebration of Life/Slow Down Move Over Awareness Event. My car was the 5^th or 6^th vehicle in line for the parade of trucks, vans and cars that participated in this event. The parade came together at the front of Robert’s Center in Willington, Ohio and probably took the parade management over 6 1/2 minutes to get all of us, over 50 tow trucks with flashing lights, from the parking lot into line at a nearby street.

As was planned, we drove a few miles down into the neighboring town and came back to the show via another route. After the parade finished, we joined together for a wonderful, scrumptious pig roast which was sponsored by INA Towing Network. The group enjoyed all the fixings until we couldn’t eat anymore. The atmosphere was like a large family, sitting down together. The pictures will show you some folks decorated their tow trucks with lights flashing. Others, like mine, sported banners and signs of towers who were killed. Everyone who saw the parade either moved over or stopped in their lane as if it was a real funeral procession. Those driving vehicles or on the sidewalk observed vehicles in the parade with solemn respect and their respect was greatly appreciated.

On my car, I represented Bobby Unruh, Linda Unruh’s only son who was killed. Bobby was only 38 years old when he was hit by the driver of a loaded tractor-trailer. The driver of the trailer hit Bobby without slowing down and caused his truck to travel 300 feet before he began to stop. Due to the force of that tractor-trailer’s impact, Bobby was instantly killed. It was my honor to be a part of this celebration of life in honor of Bobby Unruh who left behind a daughter and two sons.

On the next day of the show, we did our Candlelight Vigil where at the end of the Trade Show the floor closed and all of us gathered in the lobby of the exhibit area. Matt Spencer and I spoke to the group, honoring the 2024 Wall of the Fallen. Matt’s son, Keagan Spencer was killed this past year. Matt detailed with tears in his eyes about what happened to his son. It showed me and others just how fragile life really is. Last month, on the front cover of this publication, names were listed of those lost who are being remembered this year. In fact, the loss reached my city as well when Frank Ingram, a neighbor of mine from Georgia was killed less than 5 miles from my home. It was a very sad situation and a tragedy that could have been avoided.

Getting back to Matt Spencer, here’s some background information on what he revealed about his son. Matt told those gathered, “Keagan was a third-generation tower and Keagan was in a tow truck from the moment he was born.” Unfortunately, Keagan was only 25 years old when he was killed. Shortly after Keagan was killed, we had Matt on a podcast to help promote the Slow Down Move Over Law. You might remember that Keagan had his one and half year-old daughter, Nona that fateful afternoon in the cab of his truck with her packed diaper bag full of bottles and everything a child could need. Keagan had parked his truck off the side of the road and was trying to help a dog that was running down the highway. Without notice, poor Keagan was struck and killed by a distracted driver.

After Matt Spencer finished speaking, I challenged everyone that these great people should not have died in vain. Bobby Unruh died on May 11th, 2017. Unfortunately, the New Mexico State Police did not issue a citation to the driver of the tractor trailer that killed Bobby. However, due to the tenacity of Linda Unruh getting the Governor of New Mexico to sign the bill, Bobby’s Law was created in the State of New Mexico. Linda, I know it must have been hard to endure such a loss but thank you for leading the charge for Bobby’s Law.

Life is fleeting, and at a moment notice, someone we love, and respect can be gone from this world. Let’s remember those towers that have given their lives for this industry. We can do this in each of our states by changing or adding laws that will protect all towers who just want to return home at the end of the day.

See you on the next podcast.

Importance of the Right Tools and Knowledge!

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No doubt, all of us know the importance of having handy the right tools and knowing how to use them correctly. Together, it can mean a job completed well, without any loss of equipment, property or life. Such was the case on July 6^th, 2024, at Hurst Towing.

The team at Hurst Towing received a call about a rolled over machine. Dispatch contacted Daniel, and he headed to the site immediately. When he arrived on scene, the machine was going downhill in the customer’s backyard. The machine was a Mini Derick Digger on Tracks (drill rig). Daniel located the weight plate, stating the machine was 25,000 pounds. He set his truck up and went to work on rigging and running lines.

Daniel came off the side pull with 3 lines to the load. Then, came off the side (using his Baileys towing supplies state pocket side puller) with the bed winch 2 lines to the load and dead manning back to the side puller. He used 3/8 G-100 chain, 8 1/2-ton screw pin shackles, 1 master link, 36’ 4” flat strap doubled up with his wreck master buckle and 5 snatch blocks (4-ton). He was able to upright the machine without moving or damaging the customers brand new fence post.

The day ended well for Daniel. It’s important to know that Daniel had no problem assessing what needed to be done because he already had the right tools and knowledge of their use to complete the job with confidence. You’ll be glad to know that the new fence post wasn’t harmed.

A Belief in Commitment

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By Mike Porter, President TDR Way

Jeffery Godwin, a name synonymous with dedication and passion for the towing industry, believes in commitment to his family, his friends and the industry he loves. Through tireless efforts, natural creativity, the ability to plan for the future and a lot of sleepless nights, he has not only helped shape the industry but is also leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.

Since 2005, Godwin has spent countless hours working on and leading his true industry passion, the Survivor Fund, showcasing his deep-rooted compassion and empathy for those in the towing community facing hardships. His relentless pursuit of supporting and uplifting others in times of need has earned him the respect and admiration of his peers. And his dream of one day celebrating a year with no roadside towing operator fatalities remains a driving force in all that he does for towing and recovery.

For the past twenty years, Godwin has shared his wisdom and leadership talents with many industry organizations:

As the 1st Vice President of the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum since 2017, Godwin has played a pivotal role in preserving the rich history and heritage of the towing industry.
From 2011 to 2016, Godwin served as the TRAA Associate Member Representative to the Board, where he effectively represented the interests of towing professionals and advocated for their rights and welfare. His strategic insights and collaborative approach have helped shape policies and initiatives that benefit the entire towing industry.
His involvement as the Co-Chair of the Wall of the Fallen Committee since 2005 further underscores his deep sense of duty towards honoring the sacrifices of towing professionals who have lost their lives in the line of service to the motoring public. His unwavering commitment to preserving their memory and legacy is a testament to his profound respect for those who have dedicated their lives to serving others.
As a pioneer in the towing industry, Godwin has made significant contributions to its advancement and growth. He played a role in the early development of TOPS software which has since revolutionized the way towing companies manage their operations, streamlining processes and increasing efficiency. Godwin was also heavily involved in the development of the earliest digital dispatching. More than 25 years ago, he began connecting those who needed service with those that could perform the work.
Moreover, Godwin co-founded the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame Museum Survivor Fund in 2005, evidence of his unwavering dedication to supporting the families of towing professionals in times of need. The fund’s ongoing growth and increasing payouts to eligible families is a tribute to Godwin’s ability to effectively share his views on the importance of the towing and recovery industry caring for their own.

In addition to his numerous accomplishments, Godwin co-founded FTI Groups Inc, the parent company of towPartners, a resource discount purchasing program that has saved towing companies over $50 million. His innovative approach to business and his commitment to helping towing companies thrive have made a significant impact on the industry.

Jeffery Godwin’s legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations, leaving an indelible mark on the industry for years to come.

The Importance of the Towing Hall of Fame

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By Mike Porter, President TDR Way

In Chattanooga, Tennessee, at the base of Lookout Mountain, is the International Towing and Recovery Museum. Part of the museum recognizes and honors the men and women who have been inducted into the Towing Hall of Fame.

The first class, inducted in 1986, consisted of 27 members from six countries: Australia, Canada, Mexico, South Africa, United Kingdom and United States. Industry professionals came together and selected individuals who made a difference worldwide.

Being inducted into the Towing Hall of Fame is a prestigious honor that recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the towing industry. Inductees are celebrated for their dedication, innovation, leadership, and positive impact on the industry and the community. This recognition serves as a testament to their hard work and commitment to advancing the towing profession.

Inductees have been honored for a variety of reasons, all of which reflect their outstanding achievements and influence within the towing industry. These reasons can be broadly categorized into three main criteria:

Industry Innovation: Inductees are recognized for demonstrating innovation through a product or service that has had a transformative impact on the industry. By introducing new technologies, processes, or solutions that enhance efficiency and safety, they have propelled the towing industry forward into the next century. Their contributions have not only improved the operations of towing companies but have also raised the standards for the entire industry.
Exemplary Leadership: Another key criterion for induction into the Towing Hall of Fame is exemplary leadership within a tow company. Inductees must have led a towing business for a minimum of 20 years, demonstrating exceptional management skills, integrity, and a commitment to promoting a positive image of the towing industry. Their ability to build strong relationships with their employees, customers, and the community at large sets them apart as role models for others in the industry.
Impactful Projects: Inductees are also recognized for their involvement in significant projects that have had a lasting and dynamic effect on the towing industry. Whether through pioneering new techniques, advocating for industry-wide improvements, or leading initiatives that benefit the community, these individuals have made a tangible difference in shaping the future of towing. Their visionary approach and collaborative efforts have helped drive positive change and progress within the industry.

Overall, being inducted into the Towing Hall of Fame is a mark of distinction that celebrates the achievements and contributions of exceptional individuals in the towing profession. It signifies a legacy of excellence, dedication, and service that has left a lasting imprint on the industry and inspired others to follow in their footsteps. As a beacon of honor and recognition, the Towing Hall of Fame serves as a tribute to those who have made a meaningful impact and helped shape the towing industry into what it is today.

The 2024 honorees are, in alphabetical order:

William Clayton of Nambour, Queensland, Australia
Francis D. Coady of Seabrook, NH
Jean Georges, Menil-aux-Bois, France
Jeffrey Godwin of Longview, TX
Kevin Goodyear, Enterprise, AL
Joseph R. Haines, Jr., of Columbus, NJ
Walter R. Mayer, Brookhaven, GA
William G. Miller II, Ooltewah, TN
Jack Wendell Richards (posthumous), Alberta, Canada

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