There are endless examples of scummy business practices that take from consumers. When you think about companies that make everyday life a little harder on the average American, tow truck companies may come to mind. When you need their services, they’re there—but when you don’t, they’re waiting in the wings for a mistake. One Redditor gained attention when they called out a tow truck driver’s scam business practices in Texas.
The post, made by @laperlabar in r/Austin, warned others: “PSA: Scumbag tow truck driver lying to people at Zilker/Barton Springs about where they can park in order to tow their car when they walk away.” In the video, the tow truck driver finds it hilarious after telling unsuspecting people they’re safe to park. It’s a lie, of course. He then tows their vehicle when they walk away. He says to one victim, “You good, bro,“ then laughs maniacally. Their day is going to be ruined by this lunatic.
In another video, he speaks with a man in a black SUV and reassures him his vehicle won’t be towed. A few seconds later, a picture is shared of the same SUV being hooked up to a tow truck. On the Reddit post, @laperlabar warns, “There’s a lowlife tow truck driver recording himself lying to people about where it’s ok to park, telling people they don’t need to pay, etc.” to bring attention to the scummy business practices of that specific towing company.
It didn’t take long for other Redditors to identify the tow truck driver’s company. One commented, “The truck at the end belongs to ATX-VIP Towing and the dude has pics of himself on Insta in ATX-VIP Towing Trucks.” The commenter then goes on to say, “I sent an email but I have rather low expectations.” As of a few days ago, they still hadn’t heard back.
Another commenter stated, “You won’t get a reply, the owner is a scum bag, owns several companies. Also owned treasure island on 6th, if you remember that place and why it’s closed, you know they do not care what scummy things their drivers do, in fact, it’s encouraged.” It’s disheartening that companies are completely fine with ruining a person’s day for some cash.
Apparently, Austin and other areas of Texas are prone to terrible run-ins with tow truck drivers. A commenter sarcastically asked, “Scumbag towtruckers in Austin? You don’t say. But seriously, I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, the law needs to come down on the predatory practices of Austin towing companies. The time is way past needed.”
Another said that he “met a guy at the bar last weekend who told me every time he sees a tow truck parked somewhere, he slashes the tires.” As you can see, tow truck companies clearly get more hate than they do support. Maybe it has a little something to do with guys like the one we witnessed today.
