Those drivers who are considering a tow truck driver career or operating their own tow truck business should be aware that it is a very dangerous job. Injuries and fatalities are very high among tow truck drivers. Accidents regularly occur when the tow truck driver is loading a vehicle onto the flatbed of the truck. Typically, they are hit by another car during the process of loading the car. Often times, tow truck drivers become victims of hit-and-run accidents.

Recently a tow truck driver was seriously injured as a result of a hit-and-run accident. The accident occurred as he was loading a vehicle to be towed. At the time of the accident, he was operating the lift controls. The driver was knocked down but fortunately was able to get out of the roadway. The driver survived as he was treated and determined to have non-life threatening injuries. The driver of the vehicle that struck this tow truck driver didn’t stop but instead fled the scene of the accident. Police are currently seeking the car.

The driver of this tow truck made every effort to be safe. However, this accident occurred despite that fact that the tow truck driver was wearing his orange safety vest. Additionally, both the tow trucks flashers and emergency lights were activated at the time the accident occurred.

Accidents increase during inclement weather conditions. One case involved a tow truck driver being struck and killed while trying to tow away a car in near whiteout conditions. He was towing a vehicle when another motorist lost control of their vehicle and hit him. The snow-covered roadway was a contributing cause of the accident. Tow truck drivers can also be injured by slipping and falling on snowy or icy roads.

Tow truck drivers must be especially cautious when loading vehicles onto the tow truck. Oftentimes, drivers become injured by the wrecked vehicles they are attempting to tow. They can be cut by glass or broken or rough surfaces of the wrecked vehicles.

Accidents are not the only hazards of the job. Tow truck drivers who work in the repossession and impound industry typically face danger from irate car owners. These drivers are often threatened with physical violence and weapons. Some are even attacked by dogs. A tow truck driver was killed as he was trying to secure a vehicle being towed. The owner of the vehicle jumped into the tow truck and drove off dragging the driver with him.

Tow truck drivers must be alert and aware of the dangers they are facing. When working in the tow-away zone, always stay in the safety zone. If you are operating your own towing business, make sure the vehicles you purchase and use are in good condition. Do so much as you can to stay safe on the roads.  This will aid in helping you to have a long successful career.

Article Courtesy of Trucking SOS