Legislation aimed at reducing predatory billing against truckers who need towing services in Florida is expected to be signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis, according to a source familiar with the reforms.
Legislative Progress
House Bill 179, sponsored by Republicans in the Florida House and Senate, was approved unanimously by the two chambers last week. The reforms have been a multiyear effort and a priority for the Florida Trucking Association, the group stated in a press release.
Industry Reactions
“This is a huge victory for trucking in Florida, the trucking industry nationally, who have seen invoices as high as $200,000, and the motoring public, who fall victim to predatory towing companies,” commented FTA President and CEO Alix Miller.
Key Revisions
The new law, if signed, will revise provisions relating to towing and storing of trucks, including requiring counties to establish maximum rates for certain cleanup and disposal. It also addresses requirements for removal of vehicles, liens, notices of lien, and penalties for noncompliance.
Impact on Operators
Towing and storage operators would be required to maintain and publicize a rate sheet listing all fees related to vehicle recovery, and provide it upon request to vehicle owners, lienholders, and insurance companies. Detailed, itemized invoices would also be mandated, ensuring transparency in billing practices.
FTA's Perspective
“The towing and recovery industry is vital to the Florida trucking industry, and we’re grateful to have many as members of FTA and for their input in the legislation,” Miller said. “HB 179 will weed out the predatory towing tactics of bad actors and make the entire industry better and safer.”
Data Insights
Data compiled by the American Transportation Research Institute underscored the severity of predatory towing fees charged in the aftermath of large truck crashes and offered recommendations to address the problem. The study found that excessive rates and unwarranted additional service charges were the two most common forms of predatory towing, experienced by 82.7% and 81.8% of surveyed motor carriers, respectively.
Conclusion
With bipartisan support and industry backing, the impending legislation promises to bring much-needed relief to truckers in Florida, protecting them from predatory towing practices and ensuring fair treatment in the aftermath of accidents or breakdowns. As Governor DeSantis prepares to sign the bill into law, trucking industry stakeholders eagerly anticipate the positive impact that these reforms will have on their operations and livelihoods.