Tow Professional: Volume 15, Issue 1

STRONG, TESTED EQUIPMENT FOR MAXIMUM PRODUCTIVITY NO MATTER THE CONDITION. BECAUSE THE WORK DEMANDS IT.

Tow Professional Celebrates 15 yrs in this Great Industry!

As the current issue hits your hands, 2026 brings a celebration of 15 years that Tow Professional has been a media outlet and publisher in this great industry. The years come faster, but it has been a tremendous honor to serve the amazing men and women of towing! This year is certainly in full swing with days passing quickly as it’s already a blur! The new year looks to bring great things for those that are prepared. We hope that this issue will give you knowledge on the latest products so you can hit the ground running in 2026! In this issue we draw knowledge from some of the top manufacturers in lighting. We will be exploring an array of products built with a passion for adding safety to our industry, clarity on the scene, and awareness to drivers of our first responders. Some of the Top Manufactures: Towmate, GoLight, Custer Products, Will-Burt Industries, RP Consulting, and JB Tow will bring you the features and benefits of the latest products to hit the market. Get informed and know what will add safety and take your business to the next level!

Hazmat recovery training and spill containment is another topic where our readers need more information. In this issue, Perry Beaty of Hazmat Responder Network explains how hazmat training can add a new revenue stream to your company. Perry also walks us through the products he engineered to assist in safe and productive hazmat spill containment. Our friends at Zips look at a fantastic product that is making tow professionals from everyone using the Spill Tackle product during a cleanup.

In our “Fuel for Thought” series by DJ Harrington, we discuss the importance of hiring right the 1st time! A bad hire can affect your business for years. In this installment of Women of Towing, we talk about supporting women in towing. Find out what steps you can take as an owner or manager to be supportive, communicate, and be flexible without lowering standards. Our most recent addition in our Editorial staff is John Borowski, “Mr. Industry,” with his new column “Under the Hood.” We examine how to add an accident cleanup profit center to your company. This analysis provides valuable insights you will not want to overlook.

We pray that 2026 will be your best year ever! Thanks again for your readership, service, and dedication to our industry! God Bless and protect our Towers!

Owner/Publisher

Tow Professional

derek@ryecroftcreative.com

Digital Director cody@blpmedia.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

DJ Harrington

Michelle Sukow

Chris Anderson

Ron Pullen

David Cotsmire

Perry Beaty

John Borowski

Gina Bartlett

Executive and Advertising Offices 1005 Mountain Trace Birmingham, AL 35242

Toll free: 888-802-8544 Fax: 205-978-1550 www.towprofessional.com

Tow Professional is published nine times a year by Over The Mountain Media, Inc., 1005 Mountain Trace, Birmingham, Alabama, 35242, USA. Tow Professional is distributed free to qualified subscribers. Non-qualified subscription rates are $57.00 per year in the U.S. and Canada and $84.00 per year for foreign subscribers (surface mail). U.S. Postage paid at Birmingham, Alabama and additional mailing offices.

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Innovation on the Road:

Patented Technologies from Jerr-Dan® Have Transformed Towing & Recovery

When you’re working in the towing and recovery industry, every minute and every movement counts. From accident scenes to roadside assistance, operators depend on equipment that’s safe, reliable and efficient. For decades, Jerr-Dan has been setting the standard for innovation, backed by a portfolio of patents that directly impact the daily lives of those behind the wheel and on the job.

Engineering Innovation, One Patent at a Time

The company’s commitment to innovation is more than a marketing story; it’s supported by decades of patented engineering breakthroughs that

have reshaped the towing and recovery landscape. These patents demonstrate a clear pattern: Jerr-Dan identifies realworld operator challenges and solves them with practical, field-ready design improvements.

Here’s a quick look at some of JerrDan’s most notable technologies — and how they benefit the people who rely on them every day.

US 7,556,468 — Folding Wheel Retainer for Wheel-Lift Systems

What it does:

A wheel-lift design with folding arms and a cam mechanism that moves from the operating position to the stowed position smoothly and securely.

Benefits:

• Efficient setup

• Helps the operator work comfortably

• Compact, secure transport position

US 8,360,706 — Side Recovery System (SRS)

What it does:

A pivoting boom that swings to either side of the truck for lateral winching and side recoveries.

Benefits:

• Operator positioned away from traffic

• Efficient recoveries with little truck repositioning

• Effective in ditches, embankments, and tight spaces

US 7,909,561 — Tow Truck With Underlift Control

What it does:

A control system that limits

unintended underlift movement and provides operator override capability.

Benefits:

• Prevents dangerous boom positions

• Reduces risk of damage to towed vehicles

• Adds a layer of operator and equipment protection

US 7,517,005 & US 7,264,305 — Deck Assembly for Transporter Vehicles

What they do:

Transporter/rollback deck designs with interface plates that manage thermal expansion between materials.

Benefits:

• Long deck life

• Low warping or stress

• Durability for heavy-use fleets

US 7,226,080 — Adjustable Recovery Spade

What it does:

A ground anchor with adjustable positions and traction-enhancing teeth for recovery work.

Benefits:

• Strong anchoring on soft or uneven terrain

• Reliable stability during heavy recoveries

• Adjustable angles for varying ground conditions

US 6,527,495 — Universal Adjustable Wrecker Body Sub-Frame

What it does:

An adjustable sub-frame and panel system designed to fit multiple truck chassis types.

Benefits:

• Simple installation across diverse chassis

• Minimal custom fabrication time

• More efficient fleet upfitting

US 6,447,239 — Independent Wheel-Lift with ChassisMounted Pivot

What it does:

A wheel-lift located beneath a tilting rollback bed, with coordinated pivot points for smoother operation.

Benefits:

• Wheel-lift and bed work together seamlessly

• Reliable ground conformity during loading

• Control during towing and recovery

US 6,336,783 — Advanced Rollback Wheel-Lift

What it does:

A wheel-lift system designed to provide horizontal extension and gentle loading geometry.

Benefits:

• Reduced loading angles

• Low risk of vehicle damage

• Smooth loading of varied vehicle types

US 6,315,515 — Over-Center Tow Locking Mechanism

What it does:

A mechanical locking system for wheel-lift arms that backs up hydraulic systems.

Benefits:

• Keeps vehicles secure even if hydraulic pressure fails

• Increases towing reliability

• Protects operators and cargo

US 5,133,633 — Low-Angle Slidably Supported Roll-Back Deck

What it does:

A rollback deck with a sloped tail and sliding support system designed to manage loading angles.

Benefits:

• Efficient loading of low-clearance vehicles

• Reduced wear due to sliding pad design

• Enhanced loading

Driving the Industry Forward

From adjustable sub-frames to side recovery systems, patented technologies from Jerr-Dan have one thing in common: They support towing and recovery professionals with patented solutions that address real problems for vehicle operators. These innovations help:

• Address manual labor

• Improve operator safety

• Help boost confidence and performance

• Lower maintenance costs

• Maximize fleet productivity

Patents are more than a piece of paper; they can have a real impact on the world. These Jerr-Dan patented technologies demonstrate how thoughtful engineering empowers the men and women who keep roads clear, vehicles moving and communities safe. Jerr-Dan continues to drive innovation where it matters most — on the road, in real-world conditions, every single day.

TowMate Launches Infinitra™ Quad-Color Light Bar

Quad-color output, total pattern control, adjustable intensity, and on-the-fly color configuration powered by TowMate’s new Power-Link 2.0 two-wire technology

TowMate, the inventor and world leader in wireless tow light technology since 1985, today announced the official launch of the Infinitra™ Quad-Color Light Bar, a next-generation overhead warning light system engineered to deliver unmatched flexibility, visibility, and control for towing and recovery professionals. Designed, engineered, and manufactured in Rogers, Arkansas, Infinitra is built for demanding real-world conditions and backed by TowMate’s Lifetime Warranty, reinforcing the company’s commitment to Americanbuilt quality and long-term reliability.

Infinitra is also part of TowMate’s next generation of Power-Link lighting, Power-Link 2.0, a simple and installer-

friendly two-wire technology that transmits control signals over the power wires themselves. This eliminates the need for bulky ten wire or greater stranded control cables, making installation faster, cleaner, and more reliable.

Infinitra stands apart with full quadcolor coverage all the way around the bar, available in either Amber, Red, White, Blue or Amber, Red, White, Green configurations. Operators can instantly adapt to different jobsite conditions and jurisdictional requirements with the ability to change color configuration on the fly, without downtime or complicated rewiring.

Unlike many modern feature locked systems, Infinitra requires no subscription and no paid unlocks to

access its full capability. Once you own it, everything is enabled out of the box, giving fleets confidence that every feature, mode, and configuration is ready to go from day one.

Designed to be both powerful and customizable, Infinitra delivers a wide range of patterns and modes, along with the ability to adjust intensity and pattern speed, giving fleets and drivers the control they need for everything from roadside recovery to accident scenes and nighttime operations.

“Infinitra was built for the operators who need more than just on and off,” said Chris Anderson, Executive Vice President of TowMate. “This bar gives you real control of color, pattern, speed, and intensity, and we made sure it is fully capable the moment you install

“Infinitra was built for the operators who need more than just on and off. This bar gives you real control of color, pattern, speed, and intensity, and we made sure it is fully capable the moment you install it.”

— Chris Anderson, Executive Vice President of TowMate

Lighting the Way: Advanced Scene Solutions for Tow Operators

When every second counts on a dark roadside, Will-Burt delivers the visibility tow operators need to stay safe and efficient. Our Night Scan® HDT light towers deploy in seconds, illuminating the entire scene from above with 360° tilt-adjustable lighting controlled by push-button or wireless remote. This overhead lighting eliminates glare, frees your hands, and warns oncoming traffic—enhancing safety while allowing full focus on the recovery. For additional support, FRC (Fire Research Corp.) scene lighting offers rugged, high-intensity solutions trusted by emergency professionals across the country.

Complementing our tower systems, NightSearcher portable lights provide rugged, rechargeable illumination for quick setups in harsh conditions, while Pi-Lit® Smart Sequential Flares guide traffic safely around curves, hills, or accident scenes with automatic syncing and DOT-compliant visibility. Whether mounted on your truck or carried in your gear bag, Will-Burt’s comprehensive lighting solutions ensure you’re prepared for any scene—anytime, anywhere.

it. No subscriptions. No paywalls. Just performance. With Power-Link 2.0, we have also made installation dramatically simpler with two wires, clean routing, and fewer points of failure.”

TowMate developed Infinitra through a Beta soft release with towing partners across the country, gathering feedback directly from fleet owners and operators.

“The ability to quickly switch light configurations at the push of a button ensures compliance and safety,” said Ryan Ward, Owner of Roadside Services Towing.

Key Features of the Infinitra™ Quad-Color Light Bar

• Quad-color output all the way around the bar: Amber, Red, White, Blue or Amber, Red, White, Green

• Multitude of patterns and modes for maximum versatility

• Adjustable intensity control for scene needs and visibility conditions

• Adjustable pattern speed control to match the environment and traffic flow

• Change color configuration on the fly for compliance and jobsite flexibility

• No subscription required, fully capable out of the box

• Power-Link 2.0 next generation two-wire technology is even more responsive with control signals sent over power wires

• Designed, engineered, and manufactured in Rogers, Arkansas

• Backed by TowMate’s Lifetime Warranty

Availability

The Infinitra™ Quad-Color Light Bar is available now in a 58 inch model, with additional sizes coming soon. Infinitra is available through TowMate and authorized dealers. For product information, dealer inquiries, and fleet solutions, find your local dealer at www.towmate.com/dealers or contact TowMate at info@towmate.com or 800-680-4455.

ABOUT TOWMATE

TowMate is the inventor and world leader in wireless tow light technology, proudly serving the towing and recovery industry since 1985. Headquartered in Rogers, Arkansas, TowMate designs and manufactures innovative emergency and warning lighting solutions built for performance, reliability, and operator safety.

Golight’s GXL Series of Lights

Golight’s GT and Stryker ST lights have been showcased as a Top Product in Tow Professional magazine for many years, being a favorite

of many tow professionals. Golight also has an off-road series for our Tow Professional that would like to add these to their ATV, SUV, 4x4, or side by sides. The GXL series offers a GXL Off-

GXL Off-Road

• P-Vex Lens Technology

• 12º Beam Angle

• Active Cooling Technology

• On-Board Thermal Protection

• 9-36V Capacity

• 30,000 hr. Rated Life

• 5 Year Limited Warranty

LED SPOT

• 130,000 Candela, Max Beam Distance 2,365 ft

• 2 Amps at 12V

Road and a GXL Performance. These are rugged lights that will not only complement your ride, but they will also turn night into day improving visibility in the worst conditions.

LED Xtreme Lighting

• Fixed Mount

• 9-32 Volt DC Input

• Shock Proof

• 50,000-hour LED Life Expectancy

• Spot or Flood Light Options

• 10 Year limited Warranty

Flood Models

• 7,500 Lumens, 35º Beam Angle

• 5 Amps at 13.8v

Spot Models

• 215,000 Candela, Max Beam Distance 3,041 ft

• 6 Amps at 13.8V

Support for Alfredo Martin –Injured in the Line of Duty

On December 29, 2025, our colleague and friend Alfredo Martin, a repossession agent who has been part of our team for several years, was the victim of a brutal act of violence while performing his job. Alfredo was shot during a repossession but was able to get himself to safety and receive emergency medical care.

We are incredibly grateful to share that Alfredo is currently in recovery and is expected to make a full recovery. While this outcome brings immense relief, the road ahead will include

significant medical expenses, time away from work, and unforeseen financial burdens for Alfredo and his family.

Alfredo has always shown dedication, professionalism, and courage in his work. Now, he needs our support.

Any contribution—big or small—will go directly toward helping Alfredo with medical bills, recovery-related expenses, and ongoing financial needs during this difficult time. If you are unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser and keeping Alfredo in your thoughts and prayers is deeply appreciated.

Thank you for your generosity, support, and compassion.

Access Tools Emergency Response Kit

Being locked out of their vehicle is never where your customers want to end up. With the Emergency Response Kit from Access Tools, you can save the day. Designed by first responders, this kit has everything you need to handle tough lockouts quickly. The kit offers eight tools, including an air wedge, jack tools and long reach tools with scratch-proof coating that protects the vehicle’s finish. All of the tools can be stored in the 30” long nylon case for safekeeping.

See the full list of included tools at www.zips.com

PSS FIRSTGUARD Safety Cones

PSS FIRSTGUARD Safety Cones are a foldable alternative to traditional cones. Unfolded, it stands 28” tall with a 29” by 29” footprint for maximum visibility. Its rubber feet and three points of contact ensure it stays firmly in place. Available in fluorescent green and classic safety orange, the vibrant colors catch attention in every environment. When it’s time to go, it can be folded so that it is only 1.5”. This makes it much more convenient to store when not in use.

Learn more about the PSS FIRSTGUARD Safety Cones at www.zips.com

TowMate HINVII Warning Light

Help your team stand out with TowMate HINVII Warning Lights. By emitting a non-visible, ultraviolet light, the HINVII Warning Lights make hi-vis and reflective material intensely glow without impairing workers’ vision. This helps keep workers safe without disrupting operations. For added versatility, this light can alternate between UV and amber LED functionality. The lighting function includes three flash patterns, which are changeable by swiping a magnet over the light. They include ‘Steady-on UV’, ‘Flashing UV’ and alternating ‘UVAmber Durable’.

You can learn more about it and purchase one yourself by visiting www.zips.com

GUNI Automotive Ramps

The Heavy-Duty Automotive Ramps from GUNI are the solution to safely loading and unloading low-clearance vehicles without risking undercarriage damage. By providing extra lift, they reduce the approach angle and prevent bottoming out. Their durability is what sets them apart. They are constructed from welded high-density poly material, ensuring they won’t warp, crack or absorb water. As a result, these ramps hold up even after the toughest job. Each ramp is designed to handle 3,000 pounds, allowing it to accommodate heavier EVs and SUVs with ease

You can learn more about them by visiting www.zips.com

Registration is now open for Hill Day 2026!

• Early Bird Discount (register by December 31, 2025)

TRAA Member Pricing (subject to verification): $699

Non-Member Pricing: $899

• Standard Registration (January 1-January 31, 2026)

TRAA Member Pricing (subject to verification): $799

Non-Member Pricing: $999

Registration closes on January 31st, so REGISTER NOW!

2026 Tentative Event Schedule

Tuesday, February 24, 2026

• 8:30 am Registration & Event Check-In

• 8:30 am - 9:30 am Breakfast

• 9:30 am - 10:30 am Legislative Workshop 1: Opening Session & Overview of Legislative Priorities

• 11:00 am - 12:00 pm Legislative Workshop 2: Constituent Meeting Preparation

• 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Lunch

• 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm Federal Policy Session

• 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm State Association Sharing

Wednesday “Hill Day”, February 25, 2026

• 9:00 am Constituent Meetings with Members of Congress (meetings facilitated by TRAA’s federal lobbying team)

• 2:00 pm Member of Congress Meet & Greet on Capitol Hill

• 3:30 pm Capitol Tour

Landoll Company, LLC Donates Milestone Trailer to Benefit International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum

Landoll, widely known in the towing industry for their lowboy trailers, is proud to announce the donation of a 53-foot Landoll 440 Series traveling axle trailer, currently under construction, to support the International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum. This significant contribution represents trailer number 40,000 built by Landoll, marking a major milestone in the company’s manufacturing history.

The donated trailer will play a central role in celebrating the 40th anniversary of the International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame, honoring the industry’s legacy, achievements, and the individuals who have shaped it. Proceeds from the trailer will help support the museum and its mission, including preservation of key exhibits such as the Wall of the Fallen, which pays tribute to towing professionals who have lost their lives in the line of service.

The custom Landoll 440 Series trailer will be auctioned on October 16, 2026, with all proceeds benefiting the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum. The auction is expected to draw strong interest from

across the transportation and towing industries due to the trailer’s historic significance, premium craftsmanship, and limited-edition status.

“Reaching our 40,000th trailer is a proud moment for Landoll, and we can think of no better way to commemorate it than by supporting an organization that honors service, sacrifice, and excellence within the towing and recovery industry,” said Don Landoll, founder and president of Landoll Company. Don was inducted into the International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame in 1997.

The donation reflects Landoll’s long-standing commitment to the

Windustry and its continued support of organizations that preserve its history while investing in its future.

About Landoll Company, LLC

Founded in 1963, Landoll Company, LLC has provided proven solutions to customers worldwide for more than 60 years. Guided by founder and President Don Landoll’s Customer Comes First philosophy, the company manufactures high-quality farm equipment, trailers, forklifts, OEM, government, and construction equipment—building long-standing customer relationships through dependable performance and craftsmanship.

Fuel Nationwide and Save

ith nationwide acceptance, you can shop for the best price on fuel almost anywhere with the Watchcard fuel card. Once approved, you can choose your controls and enjoy security by setting dollar limits and fraud alerts. Plus, get extra flexibility with the ability to manage and add multiple cards for your drivers.

With the Watchcard fuel card, fueling your fleet has never been easier.

• Save Money on Fees

Enjoy no set up fee, report fee, or card order fee.

• Fuel Nationwide Watchcard is accepted at 98% of fueling stations so you can shop for the best price almost anywhere you travel.

• Exceptional Service

Enjoy 24/7 control and monitoring of your account, easy online access to billing and reporting, and dedicated customer service.

For more information, please visit www.watchcard.com

BY MICHELLE SUKOW ///

Supporting Women in Towing: What Owners

Conversations that Matter

The towing industry doesn’t need more conversations about whether women belong here. That question has been answered repeatedly, in dispatch centers, offices, and recovery scenes across the country. The real conversation that still needs attention is this one.

and Managers Can Do

How do owners and managers better support the women who are already here and working hard to stay? Supporting women in towing is not about special treatment. It is about smart leadership, strong culture, and recognizing what helps good employees become great ones. Yes, sometimes it requires a closer

Better

look at habits that may have worked “the old way” but do not serve today’s workforce.

Support that Starts with Respect, not Assumptions

Women in towing wear many hats. They’re the dispatcher, operator,

administrator, owner, marketer, and problem-solver-in-chief. Too often, assumptions are made about what women want or can manage instead of asking and listening. Supportive leaders create space for honest conversations about goals, workload, and growth. They do not decide for women. They decide with them.

Consistency Matters More Than Grand Gestures

A culture that supports women is built in the small, daily moments. It is how feedback is given. It is how mistakes are handled. It is who gets invited into decision-making conversations. When expectations are clear and applied consistently, women don’t have to fight to prove they belong. They’re too busy doing their jobs well.

Communication Is the Difference Maker

Let’s talk about communication. Towing is fast-paced and pressurefilled, which means communication can sometimes slide into survival mode. Clear, respectful communication is not a luxury. It is a leadership skill. Women thrive in environments where expectations are stated, feedback is constructive, and concerns are taken seriously. When communication breaks down, it is not just morale that suffers. It is efficiency, retention, and trust.

Flexibility Without Lowering Standards

Flexibility is another area where managers can do better, and it is one of the most practical ways to support women without lowering expectations. The reality is that many women in towing are balancing more than one full-time responsibility. That does not mean standards should drop, but it does mean leadership needs to be creative. In many operations, dispatchers can successfully work from home with the right systems in place. Office staff may benefit from rotating start times that allow them to manage school schedules, caregiving responsibilities, or long commutes without sacrificing productivity. During major life transitions, flexibility might look like temporary schedule adjustments, cross-training coverage, or a shortterm shift in responsibilities. The goal is not accommodation for its own sake. It is problem-solving instead of penalizing. When flexibility is built thoughtfully, businesses do not lose control. They gain loyalty, consistency, and employees who are committed for the long haul.

Professional Development Signals Long-Term Value

Support also shows up in professional development. Women are often excellent at learning on the fly, but that doesn’t mean training and advancement should be left to chance. Owners and managers who invest in training, mentorship, and leadership opportunities send a clear message: you are valued here, and we see your future. Supportive

Do you know a towing lady who deserves recognition?

Please send Michelle Sukow or Tow Professional a message. We would love to share her story! (michellesukow@gmail.com)

leaders do not wait for women to ask. They open doors and encourage them to walk through.

Handling Conflict Without Dismissal

Another critical piece is how conflict is handled. Women in towing are tough, but toughness doesn’t mean silence. When concerns are raised, whether about workflow, culture, or fairness, the response matters. Being dismissed or labeled as “too sensitive” does not build strong teams. Addressing issues professionally and promptly does.

Recognizing the Unwritten Work

Support also means recognizing that women often act as informal support systems for everyone else. They listen, organize, smooth rough edges, and keep things moving behind the scenes. Acknowledging that labor, even when it is not listed in a job description, goes a long way. Recognition does not have to be flashy. It must be genuine.

Leadership That Evolves Wins

Finally, supporting women in towing requires leadership that is willing to evolve. The industry is changing. The workforce is changing. The companies that succeed long-term will be the ones that understand support isn’t about checking boxes. It is about building environments where people want to stay, grow, and contribute.

Women don’t need saving in this industry. We need support that is thoughtful, consistent, and rooted in respect. When owners and managers get that right, women don’t just remain in towing. They lead it, strengthen it, and help ensure its future.

FUEL4THOUGHT

BY D.J. HARRINGTON CSP ///

Do Not Hire Spoilers:

Hire Right the First Time

FUEL4THOUGHT

BY D.J. HARRINGTON CSP ///

As was customary, I parked my car behind another parent who was sitting in line to get grandchildren after the school bell had rung. My mind began to look over the landscape ahead of me, and I noticed the trees located at the top of the retaining wall. It was a green landscape of trees, all with three points, standing in degrading formation above the rock wall. The stalwart trees descended the hill to grass level. Each was healthy and green. Then I saw it. A spoiler!

Then another spoiler. Two of the trees from the group were dead, indicating something had happened to them. Did they not get enough water or needed fertilizer to survive? Or the problem was the soil.

Sometimes, in business this can happen too. Whether recently hired or another whose been there awhile, they should be shown the exit. Eventually, they will cause negativism within the group. Dead trees in midst of those nice, healthy trees above the school’s rock wall can eventually cause trouble

with other trees. It is the same thing with hiring employees. By hiring the right people, who have GOOD people skills, we have a better shot at having them stay because we can teach a new team member what they need to know as long as they have good people skills. If you do not want to spend time hiring someone and six months later having to fire them, you need to start checking their references. Check their social media for anything that they might have posted about previous workers or employers. That might

reveal some negativism on their part. You certainly do not want any negativism added to your business. Most assuredly, that kind of spoiler could affect your company’s image at some point.

Talk to all the employers from their past positions to zero in on why they are looking again. Spending a little time calling a prospective employee’s last job could be a time saver after all. Treat each conversation as an investigation to get answers of why they left. If you do not check everything before you

By hiring the right people, who have GOOD people skills, we have a better shot at having them stay because we can teach a new team member what they need to know as long as they have good people skills.

hire, you might end up hiring a problem employee and regret that you offered them a job. You do not want that for yourself and certainly do not want your other employees to step lightly around a new employee, creating a negative atmosphere at your business. It is like putting a dying tree into the soil with other healthy green trees that you know will not make it because it is a spoiler. It eventually could spoil the other healthy and happy employees. So, avoid doing that to your team. Hire right the first time by finding the best candidate you can for your team. It does take more time to ask others about referrals and why someone left. And too, you could also have a team of people that interview the same person individually to see if they feel they can collaborate with this new prospective team member. Then you have several opinions of whether they will fit in with your other team members.

I remember a time when an employee who had the wrong attitude significantly impacted customer loyalty. None of us need that today. In fact, 68% of customers who stop associating with our businesses do so because of an employee’s indifference toward a customer. There have been times that I thought I had hired people who were just what my training company needed. They acted and talked like they would fit in perfectly with the other employees. Unfortunately, somehow between the time that I interviewed them and the time they showed up for work they had turned into something different.

I remember asking one guy, “Do you have a twin brother?” Not really understanding my question, he replied, “No, why?” I could swear the guy that I interviewed on Friday was extremely

different from the one that showed up to work on Monday morning. It did not take me long to ask myself, why did I hire this guy? Watch out for people that sound too good to believe because there are plenty of “how-to interview” books that can help them become hired applicants. They make a great impression on multitude of employers because they do not last too long after hired.

Just as an unhealthy tree needs something extra to keep it alive, the person you hired but would rather fire, might need something extra to keep them after all. We are optimistic that it is a training problem. When our training does not work, we think it is a motivational problem. The usual process. Additional time and effort go into reevaluating the results, but things do not seem to improve. I got it. It takes time to take out the spoiler by the roots and replace it with something or someone else. Remember one bad tree remaining in the group too long can affect the rest of the group. Therefore, remove the bad employee as soon as you can so he or she does not affect the others.

If you conclude that sometimes you have made a bad hire, you can fix it going forward. When you hire someone, they are something you and your team need at the time because they said all the right things in the interview. However, overtime, they reveal themselves and you just need someone to say it is okay to let them go, then please call me.

I would be happy to hear what is happening at your business and what you are looking for in your next employee. I would love to offer some solutions for better hiring.

BY JOHN BOROWSKI ///

FOR DECADES, THE TOWING INDUSTRY HAS TREATED ACCIDENT CLEANUP AS A COURTESY, a broom, a dustpan, a quick sweep of glass, and back in service. That model is obsolete. Today’s accident scenes are not merely messy; they are sites of chemical contamination, public safety hazards, and environmental liability. Fuel, oil, coolant, battery acid, and debris are regulated pollutants. Walking away from a scene without proper remediation is no longer just bad practice, it can be illegal.

UNDERTHEHOOD

BY JOHN BOROWSKI ///

If your company is still including cleanup in the base price of a tow, you are leaving significant revenue uncollected, while exposing your business to substantial liability. Accident remediation is not a chore. It is a specialized, billable profit center.

The single biggest mistake towing operators make is bundling remediation into the tow rate. When cleanup is included in a $250 tow, it is effectively valued at zero. Insurance adjusters and municipalities see only one line item. Meanwhile, you absorb the cost of additional labor, absorbent materials, equipment usage, disposal fees, and most importantly—liability.

Separately billing for remediation sends a clear message: this is a professional service requiring specialized equipment, trained personnel, and compliance with environmental and safety regulations such as OSHA HAZWOPER standards.

When you charge separately, remediation is no longer “extra work.” It is recognized as risk mitigation.

Compliance Is Not Optional; It Is the Law! Federal and state regulations enforced by the EPA, DOT, and OSHA are increasingly explicit. The party responsible for clearing an accident scene must do so to defined environmental standards. In many jurisdictions:

• Leaving fluids on the roadway is a violation.

• Sweeping contaminants into storm

drains or soil is a criminal offense.

• Fines can reach five figures per incident.

When your company offers professional remediation, you become the solution to a law enforcement problem. When an officer hears, “We are certified to mitigate this spill and will provide disposal documentation,” you are no longer viewed as a wrecker. You are a critical infrastructure partner. Every drop of oil, antifreeze, fuel, or battery acid left on the asphalt eventually enters the local ecosystem. Rain carries these pollutants into storm drains, soil, and groundwater. Insurance carriers define these fluids exactly as what they are: pollutants. Towing companies are the first line of defense. Proper remediation includes:

• Containment: Using booms or berms to prevent migration into drains or soil.

• Absorption: Applying high-grade materials that encapsulate fluids rather than disguising them.

• Removal: Collecting and bagging spent materials for proper disposal— not sweeping them aside.

When remediation is billed separately, you are billing for three distinct and defensible categories.

A. Labor and Scene Supervision

An accident scene requires more than a driver. It requires supervision.

Someone must manage the hot zone, control traffic exposure, document conditions, and ensure compliance. Remediation labor should be billed at a dedicated hourly rate, separate from towing or recovery labor.

B. Specialized Equipment and Materials

You would never give away a winch cable or snatch block. Absorbents, pads, PPE, and remediation kits are no different.

• Absorbent materials should be billed per bag or unit, with markup.

• Many operators charge a basic mitigation or deployment fee for remediation kits and tools.

C. Disposal and Liability

Hazardous waste cannot go into a shop dumpster. Certified disposal costs money, and those costs must be passed through to the insurer. More importantly, once you declare the scene “clean and dry,” you assume liability. A remediation fee compensates your company for accepting that risk. If it is not documented, it did not happen. Insurance carriers will not pay remediation charges without proof. At a minimum, every cleanup must include:

• Photos before remediation

• Photos during application of materials

• Photos after cleanup

• Photos of collected and contained waste

A professional invoice separates services clearly:

1. Recovery / Towing Fee

2. Scene Stabilization (cones, flares, traffic control)

3. Remediation Labor (per man hour)

4. Absorbent and Consumables (per unit)

5. Hazardous Waste Disposal and Documentation Fee

This structure is defensible, auditable, and aligned with how insurers evaluate claims. Do It Right or Don’t Do It at All! Accident remediation is good for the environment, essential for public safety, and financially smart. However, “doing it right” requires investment in training, equipment, and process. The

industry no longer has room for the push broom and kitty litter approach. The companies that win future police contracts and insurers trust will be those that leave the roadway demonstrably safe. Charge what you are worth. Bill separately. Turn your dirtiest work into your most profitable department.

Accident Remediation Billing Checklist: Do not bundle these items into the tow charge.

1. Scene Stabilization and Safety

• Scene Supervisor Fee

• Traffic Control Equipment Fee

• PPE Surcharge

2. Remediation Labor

• Hazardous Materials Cleanup (hourly) broken into 1/10th of hour

• Debris Field Removal (hourly) broken into 1/10th of hour

3. Consumables and Materials

• Absorbent Material (per bag)

• Pads and Booms (per unit)

• Degreasers and Neutralizers

4. Disposal and Documentation

• Hazardous Waste Disposal Fee

• Remediation Documentation Fee

Driver Scene Documentation Template Incident ID:

Date: Location:

Pre-Cleanup Assessment

• Fluids Present: Oil / Coolant / Fuel / Transmission / Battery Acid

• Debris Field: Glass / Plastic / Metal / Cargo

• Environmental Risk: Storm Drain / Soil / Traffic Lane

Actions Taken

• Containment Measures

• Materials Used

• Labor Applied (men/hours)

Required Photos

• Scene before work

• Materials applied

• Scene after cleanup

• Bagged or drummed waste

When the adjuster pushes back, argue liability, not price! Use this script: “Our company assumed environmental liability for that roadway. We prevented hazardous fluids from entering the local water table and documented the

work to EPA standards. Without this remediation, that liability would revert to your insured. We have photographs and disposal documentation to support the charges.”

If they argue it is “part of the tow,” respond: “Towing is the transport of a vehicle. Remediation is the restoration of the public roadway. They are two

separate losses under the same claim.” Do not apologize for the bill. Your expertise is the barrier between an insurance carrier and six-figure regulatory exposure.

It is time for the towing industry to stop giving remediation away and start getting paid for the protection it provides.

Lighting the Way Forward

How scene safety, smarter controls, and American manufacturing are shaping the next era of towing and recovery.

If you’ve been in towing long enough, you’ve watched the job change in real time. The calls haven’t gotten easier. The roadways haven’t gotten safer. Traffic has gotten faster, distractions have gotten worse, and the margin for error at an accident scene feels smaller than ever.

However, one thing hasn’t changed: visibility is survival.

When a tow operator steps out of the cab, they’re stepping into one of the most unpredictable work environments in America. It doesn’t matter if it’s a breakdown on the shoulder, a multivehicle collision, a night recovery on a blind curve, or a “routine” winchout. The scene is dynamic. Conditions shift by the minute. Moreover, the biggest threat is often the one you can’t control… passing motorists who don’t see the danger until it’s too late.

That’s why lighting is no longer just an accessory. It’s not “nice to have.” It’s part of your personal protective equipment (PPE). It’s part of your process. It’s one of the most important tools you have in which to create separation, slow traffic, and keep your people safe.

At TowMate, we’ve spent decades focusing on one goal: making the work

safer and equipment more dependable. That focus is exactly why we’re proud to introduce the next step in emergency lighting.

The new standard is control, not just brightness

The towing industry has always adopted technology fast when it solves real problems. Today’s operators aren’t just looking for a light bar that flashes. They’re looking for a system that adapts.

That shift is happening for a few reasons. Fleets are growing and consolidating to a point where standardization matters more than ever. Tow companies are operating across multiple cities and states where compliance rules and expectations vary. Scenes are more dangerous than they used to be, especially with distracted driving becoming the norm on roadways from coast to coast without exception.

The goal is to be seen, and the goal

is to be understood as well. That means using the right color, the right pattern, and the right intensity so motorists recognize what’s happening ahead and react sooner.

Scene safety starts with visibility and communication

Lighting is communication. It’s how you tell traffic what’s happening before they reach you.

The best lighting strategy isn’t simply turning everything on. It’s building an intentional warning environment that fits the moment. Sometimes that means high intensity output to cut through darkness, rain, or highway speed. Other times it means dialing intensity down at an accident scene, so you reduce glare while still maintaining visibility and control.

In towing and recovery, every second you save matters. Every moment you reduce confusion matters. Every improvement you make in visibility can

be the difference between a controlled scene and a close call.

That is exactly why TowMate has continued pushing beyond traditional warning lights.

Introducing Infinitra, TowMate’s new Quad-Color light bar

TowMate is proud to announce the official launch of the Infinitra QuadColor Light Bar, designed to give operators and fleets a level of flexibility that simply hasn’t existed in a traditional overhead bar.

Infinitra delivers quad-color output 360° around the bar, with two primary configurations available today: Amber, Red, White, Blue or Amber, Red, White, Green. That quad-color capability gives fleets the ability to match their operational needs and regional requirements without locking themselves into a single setup.

However, color is only part of the story.

Infinitra was built for the reality of towing and recovery, where conditions change quickly and the operator needs the ability to adapt just as fast. That is why Infinitra gives drivers the ability to run a wide range of patterns and modes on demand, including:

• Adjusting the intensity levels from 10% to 100% brightness at multiple stages

• Controlling the speed of the patterns, incrementally

LIGHTING

• Changing color profiles on the fly

• Selecting a pattern that suits the situation as well

And because TowMate believes capability should be owned, not rented, Infinitra requires no subscription. Once you own it, everything is fully capable out of the box. No paywalls. No unlock fees. No restricted features.

Power-Link 2.0 shaves time and presents multiple levels of ‘fail safes’

There is another industry reality that every shop and fleet manager understands: time is expensive.

Traditional light bars often require a bulky stranded control cable with ten wires or more. That means longer installs, more routing challenges, and more potential points of failure over the life of the truck.

Infinitra is part of TowMate’s next generation of Power-Link lighting, called Power-Link 2.0.

Power-Link 2.0 is a two-wire technology that sends control signals

over power wires. That means you can operate the light bar without running a massive multi-wire control harness, making installation faster, cleaner, and more scalable for fleets.

In a world where uptime matters and labor costs keep climbing, simplifying the installation and reducing maintenance is not just convenient. It is a competitive advantage.

Built in Rogers, Arkansas, and backed for the long haul

At TowMate, American manufacturing is not a buzzword or slogan. It is the foundation of how we operate.

Infinitra is designed, engineered, and manufactured in Rogers, Arkansas, where we control quality, continuously improve our products, and support the customers who rely on them every day. That level of control is what allows TowMate to build products that perform in the real world and keep performing long after the installation.

Infinitra is backed by TowMate’s Lifetime Warranty, because when your

equipment is part of your safety system, it should be built for the long haul.

Real feedback from the field

TowMate’s Infinitra launch was shaped through a Beta soft release with towing partners who operate in real-world conditions every day. Early feedback consistently highlighted the same themes: simplicity, flexibility, and increased confidence on scene.

Ryan Ward, Owner of Roadside Services Towing in Northwest Arkansas and Kansas City, Missouri, emphasized the importance of instant compliance and scene adaptability, saying, “The ability to quickly switch light configurations at the push of a button ensures compliance and safety. The light bar’s capability to adjust between low and high intensity is incredibly valuable, especially in accident scenes where lower intensity is needed while maintaining visibility.”

Jason Wilkinson of ABC Towing in Trussville, Alabama, echoed the same theme, putting into focus the ease of installation, as well as calling out both performance and adaptability,

saying, “The endless capabilities of this top of the light bar are amazing! From the easiest install ever to being able to change light colors, how fast they strobe, and any pattern you could imagine,” it all adds up to a tool of the trade unlike anything before it.

That kind of feedback matters because it reflects what the needs of the modern-day tow operator truly are. They need equipment that performs at a

high level but also reduces complexity and keeps the truck working instead of sitting in a bay.

The future of towing lighting is smarter, not more complicated

The best technology doesn’t add steps. It removes them.

The future of towing and recovery is going to reward companies that operate efficiently, protect their teams, and

POWER YOU CAN DEPEND ON.

present a professional brand on the road. Lighting is part of all three. It is safety equipment, a communication tool, and an indicator of how seriously a company takes the work.

TowMate is committed to building lighting systems that support the realities of modern towing. Infinitra is a testament to that commitment, and it is only the beginning of what Power-Link 2.0 will unlock across TowMate’s next generation lineup.

Learn more about Infinitra

The Infinitra Quad-Color Light Bar is available now in a 58-inch model, with more sizes coming soon.

To learn more, contact TowMate or your authorized TowMate dealer.

TowMate

Designed, engineered, and manufactured in Rogers, Arkansas Backed by a Lifetime Warranty

No subscription required

Towing operations that employ Jump-N-Carry jump starters know that no starting task is too daunting. They know from experience that every aspect of a Jump-N-Carry is designed to deliver extreme jump starting power, from the battery to the heavy-duty cables. Jump-N-Carry is all about power delivery.

Will-Burt Lighting Solutions: Safety, Efficiency, and Expanded Opportunities for Tow Operators

When every second counts on a dark roadside, WillBurt delivers the visibility tow operators need to stay safe and efficient. Our Night Scan® HDT and Night Scan Fit light towers deploy in seconds, illuminating the entire scene from above with 360° tilt-adjustable lighting controlled by push-button or wireless remote. This overhead lighting eliminates glare, frees your hands, and warns oncoming traffic—enhancing safety while allowing full focus on the recovery. Integrated camera and DVR systems can be added for scene recording, supporting insurance and billing needs.

Night Scan Fit is designed for compact vehicles and rapid deployment, offering the same robust illumination and control as the HDT but tailored for smaller tow trucks and quick-response teams. Both towers maximize visibility and reduce accident risk, trusted by professionals in fire, law enforcement, and emergency services.

For additional support, FRC (Fire Research Corp.) scene lighting offers rugged, high-intensity solutions trusted by emergency professionals across the country.

Complementing our tower systems:

• NightSearcher portable lights provide rugged, rechargeable illumination for quick setups in harsh

conditions. Products like the WorkStar Connect (with magnetic feet and hanging hook) and the Light Wave 520 headlamp (hands-free, gestureactivated) ensure versatile lighting wherever needed—even in extreme temperatures from -4°F to 140°F.

• Pi-Lit® Smart Sequential

Flares guide traffic safely around curves, hills, or accident scenes with automatic syncing and

DOT-compliant visibility. These rechargeable LED flares synchronize instantly, creating a sequential flash pattern that catches drivers’ attention from a distance. They’re eco-friendly, easy to deploy, and avoid the hazards of traditional flares.

Opportunities Beyond Recovery:

Will-Burt’s lighting solutions aren’t just for towing and recovery—they open doors to additional revenue streams. Operators can leverage

their equipment for:

• Road construction: Illuminate work zones for night paving, repairs, or lane closures.

• Roadside service: Provide safe, visible environments for tire changes, jump starts, or lockouts—even referencing classic scenes like the old picture in Boots and Hanks.

• Heavy equipment moving: Safely load, unload, and transport machinery at night or in low-light conditions.

• Construction: Support building

sites with powerful, portable lighting for crews working after dark or in enclosed spaces.

Whether mounted on your truck or carried in your gear bag, Will-Burt’s comprehensive lighting solutions ensure you’re prepared for any scene—anytime, anywhere. See these innovations in action at major industry events like the Florida Tow Show and American Towman Expo or schedule a demo at www.willburt.com.

Built to Perform:

Lite-It® Safety Lighting from Custer Products

Built for Real-World Towing Demands

In towing and recovery, visibility is a safety requirement—not an option. Whether responding to a late-night roadside call or operating in heavy traffic, lighting failures create risk, downtime, and compliance concerns. For more than 30 years, Custer Products has focused on one thing: building safety lighting that performs reliably in real-world conditions.

Founded in 1992, Custer Products designs and supplies professional-grade safety lighting for towing, recovery,

agricultural, and service-vehicle applications. The company has remained a consistent presence in the industry by prioritizing durability, accountability, and long-term support—qualities that matter when equipment failure isn’t just inconvenient but costly.

That commitment is reflected in the Lite-It® brand, engineered specifically for professional operators.

Engineered for Durability and Performance

Lite-It Wireless Tow Lights are built to withstand the realities of daily towing

operations. Thick, impact-resistant housings protect internal components from vibration, weather, and repeated hookups. Purpose-built sealing and wiring methods guard against moisture and corrosion—two of the most common causes of failure in roadside environments.

The result is consistent stop, tail, and turn performance across light, medium, and heavy-duty applications. Reliable lighting reduces troubleshooting time, helps maintain compliance, and lets operators focus on the job—not their equipment.

Accountability Sets Custer Products Apart

In a market crowded with low-cost imports and short-term sellers, accountability separates dependable products from disposable ones. Many lighting brands compete solely on price, offering limited support and short life cycles. Custer Products takes a different approach.

With over three decades of continuous operation, the company backs its products with real warranties, technical assistance, and long-term availability. For fleet owners and operators, that stability matters while a vehicle out of service means missed calls, added exposure, and unnecessary risk.

Lighting Solutions for Every Application

Beyond wireless tow lights, Custer Products offers a broad selection of Lite-It strobe and safety lighting solutions designed to enhance roadside visibility. The lineup includes warning lights, strobes, and auxiliary lighting for a range of vehicle types and duty levels. Multiple mounting options and flash patterns allow operators and managers to match products precisely to operational demands.

That flexibility reflects how towing really works: no two jobs are identical. Lighting systems must adapt to different vehicles, weather conditions, and environments while maintaining consistent performance and compliance.

Quality Control Without Compromise

Quality control remains at the core of the Lite-It® standard. While many products are manufactured domestically, select models are sourced through global partners—each built to

Custer Products’ proprietary design and testing criteria.

Country of origin is secondary to consistency, durability, and compliance. If a product carries the Lite-It® name, it’s engineered to perform as specified— period.

A Trusted Partner for Professionals

Custer Products also works closely with distributors, fleets, and operators to ensure the right lighting solutions are implemented in the right environments. From product selection to configuration

guidance, the company brings decades of practical experience to every project.

After more than 30 years, Custer Products continues to deliver what towing professionals expect: durable construction, reliable performance, and dependable support. The Lite-It® brand stands for confidence—confidence in function, comfort in service, and assurance that the company behind it understands the realities of the towing business.

Lite-It® Safety Lighting is built for the job—not for the shelf—and designed to perform call after call.

RP Recovery Consulting AirLight Series

Four sizes of inflatable LED light towers make up the AirLight series. From our ultra-portable AirLight to our incredibly powerful AirLight Pro Max, there is a light

10ft Airlight

Height: 9 feet 9 inches

Weight: 29 pounds

Wattage: 336 Watts

Light output: 36,000 lumens

Voltage: 120V AC

Footprint: 20” x 20” x 18” tall

AirLight Pro

Height: 12 feet

Weight: 64 pounds

Wattage: 860 Watts

tower to meet your area lighting needs. For more information, rprecoveryconsulting@gmail.com or call: 315-730-6566.

AirLight Pro Max

Height: 14 feet

Weight: 72 pounds

Wattage: 1,100 Watts

Light output: 74,400 lumens

Voltage: 120V AC

Footprint: 28” x 28” x 24” tall

All of LTA Projects light towers are LED, therefore no need for replacement bulbs, no heat buildup so no cool down period, and they all inflate in less than 30 seconds. The LED’s are in the protective case and are reflected through all frosted materials to minimize roadside glare. Our two smallest units can easily run off a standard 400w inverter where the larger would require a small generator or battery pack.

Light output: 111,000 lumens

Voltage: 120V AC

Footprint: 28” x 28” x 24” tall

FASTER RESPONSE

Operators and riggers talk to each other in real-time, hands-free. Deliver instructions clearly and answer questions directly while work caries on. No need to shout or use hand signals – clear communication helps get the job done faster.

Wireless Headsets

Advanced Technology That’s Easy to Use

Full-duplex Communication

Hands-free simultaneous two-way conversation. No more shouting – easily talk and work at the same time with your entire team.

VISIBILITY NOT REQUIRED

Far-side operators, talk with your riggers regardless of whether you can see them or not.

LISTEN-THROUGH

Sonetics Listen-Through Technology lets you mix in outside sound to get the right level of hearing protection and situational awareness.

SITE-COVERING RANGE

2 feet to 1,600. You can depend on the range – no matter what the incident requires

For more information, rprecoveryconsulting@ gmail.com or call: 315-730-6566.

IMPROVED PRECISION

There’s no communication breakdown between operators and riggers. On-scene precision and performance goes up as you reduce errors and avoid costly mistakes.

ENHANCED SAFETY

Instant communication allows for timely warnings, alerts, and instructions to the crew. Avoid job hazards and mitigate the risk of injuries and mistakes.

Above average leverage.

Shallow socket sizes included: 1/2" and 12mm

Youʼve never seen a tool like this. The new Driveline Breaker Tool from SafeAll was engineered to remove hard-to-reach driveshaft bolts on commercial trucks. The precision bends and shallow sockets provide the access and leverage needed to loosen any driveline.

PRIORITIZE SAFETY & EFFICIENCY with

Let’s face it, the Tow industry is dangerous business.

According to NIOSH, Tow professionals are more than two times as likely to be injured on the job as workers in general. That statistic is no doubt bolstered due to the proportion of tow work done at night in low light areas. In those circumstances, perfectly positioned lighting is more than a convenience; it is a tool that greatly influences on the job safety. Golight has

been designing precision remote control lighting to assist the working men and women of America for over 30 years, and we keep getting better!

Golight, Inc. is a privately held manufacturing company nestled in the heartland of the United States. In December of 1992, the idea of the remote control spotlight was born. After many engineering drawings, tooling refinements, and prototypes, the first Golight was available for sale in the summer of 1994. Since then, Golight

has set the industry standard in remote control lighting. Our lights are in service around the world, lighting the way for everything from military vehicles in theater to snow plows in Alaska and everywhere in between.

In the past 30 years, there have been numerous upgrades to our original product line. Each update incorporates the latest technology to bring our customers the best possible product. Our commitment to quality and durability can be found in every detail

of our lights. We take great pride in the industries we serve and the products we provide.

2022 brought some bright new changes to Golight with the introduction of the all new Wired Stryker ST. It incorporates all of the features of our Wireless remote ST units, but in a hard wired platform.

• The Stryker ST stems from the original Stryker product line. It features

• Multiple Unit Selector FunctionAllows for control of 2 units with 1 remote, either independently or in tandem

• Home Position Function - OnCommand return to 0° home

• New Control Technology Benefits

- Simultaneous Pan + Tilt – no opportunity for wireless interference

• Backlit remote buttons

• 2 speed rotation and tilt—fast for quick scanning, slow for precise control.

• UV and Saltwater Resistance

• Stainless Steel Mounting Bracket

• 5 year warranty.

• Optional flood lens for wide area coverage.

The Stryker ST Series are available in LED or Halogen with our LED units now providing 32% more power boasting 544,000 Candela with a Max Beam Distance of 4,839 ft. They are both available in Wireless or HardWired remote configurations and Permanent Mount or Portable Magnetic Mounting with 135° x 370° directional tilt and rotation.

Don’t take our word for it, here’s what tow operators are saying.

Golight Ambassador Kevin Martinez said “After a year using the Golight GT SERIES light on my wrecker, it made life so much easier. This light has come in handy looking for disabled motorists in dark areas and bad weather to providing extra scene lighting on recovery. I, 100% recommend Golight

to anyone looking for a light to help in the towing and recovery industry.”

James E. Lewis, a veteran to the tow industry, said that “The remotes were big enough and the buttons were manageable enough to where I didn’t have to take off my gloves to use them. That was a blessing in 16-degee weather and blowing snow.” He went on to say “I lost count of the number of times I reached into my pocket, paired the pair of lights together, and moved them in tandem to focus more of that radical lighting on our work scene… Even though it was 2 am we lit the place up like a football stadium… No slacking the lines to reposition the truck, no running up and down a 60-degree hill in a foot of snow. With the winch remotes on the tow units and the wireless remotes for the lights, we could get a safe distance away from our recovery trucks and the unit being recovered and make all the magic happen.”

Wichert Insurance is one of the largest tow agencies in the Midwest with over 30 years of experience working with towing, recovery, and garage operations. Our knowledgeable staff are current on industry issues and are experts in the coverages your operation requires. Our relationships with multiple AM Best “A - Excellent” rated carriers allow us to offer competitive rates and interest-free monthly pay plans. As active members of state associations, we are industry advocates and a reliable resource.

Our team’s experience allows us to create custom programs to meet your needs. From service trucks to extra heavy equipment, single location to multi-state operations, we will craft a program to meet your risk appetite at the most competitive rates. In addition, we act as your advocate when a claim occurs to ensure timely and fair outcomes.

We offer in-house loss control specialists at no additional cost to identify ways to control and reduce risks. Clients who engage in our loss control and safety programs benefit from lower insurance premiums, increased profitability, and reduced accidents, injuries, and claims.

See more at www.wichert.com or contact us today at 740-654-0532

Be Safe, Be Smart, Be Seen!

Visibility saves lives. In towing, that is not a slogan. It is a survival strategy. Every time an operator steps onto the shoulder, they trust distracted drivers to do the right thing at the worst possible moment. The only control we really have is how we communicate that something is happening here and that drivers need to slow down and move over.

I am writing this from the perspective of a retired police officer who spent a career working traffic stops, crash scenes, and roadway emergencies. I

have stood in the worst places at the worst times. I have watched close calls that should have been tragedies. I have also seen how one small change in visibility can give drivers just enough time and distance to react safely. That is why I have focused my energy on building better visibility tools for the people who work roadside the mosttow and recovery.

The risk is real, and it is not rare. FHWA estimates that nearly 1 in 5 traffic incidents are secondary crashes. That means a dangerous number of collisions happen because an initial

incident was not seen early enough, or the scene was not controlled clearly enough. That is exactly where better visibility makes a difference.

When it comes to preventing struck by incidents, I think in terms of simple priorities that any operator can apply on every call.

First is strategic parking of your equipment. Where you place your truck sets the tone for the entire scene. A well-positioned vehicle creates a buffer, forces earlier driver decisions, and buys you working space. Poor positioning does the opposite. You cannot outwork

bad geometry on the shoulder.

Next is personal visibility and safety lighting. Your hi vis gear matters, and so does a body warning or work light that moves with you as you walk the scene. When drivers can immediately pick you out as a person, not just a silhouette, you increase reaction time and reduce the chance of being overlooked in the chaos.

After that comes what I call distancing equipment, and this is the piece most people underestimate. On the shoulder, your biggest enemy is late recognition. Drivers are dealing with speed, weather, glare, fatigue, phones, and tunnel vision. Even when they mean well, many do not understand what they are looking at until they are already too close. Distancing equipment solves that problem by making the scene readable sooner and from farther away.

It does four jobs at once.

First, it creates advance warning. A bright, repeating light pattern catches peripheral vision long before a driver can make out a truck or a person. That extra moment of attention is what starts the braking process earlier.

Second, it channels traffic. When you place lights with intention, you are not just marking where you are. You are shaping where you want vehicles to go. A taper, a boundary, a clear do not enter line. This reduces last second swerves and the chaos that causes secondary impacts.

Third, it directs movement. Portable arrow lights do something cones and strobes often cannot. They give unmistakable instruction. Move left. Move right. Merge now. An arrow is universal. Drivers do not have to guess. They comply.

Fourth, it communicates the seriousness of the scene without needing a word. A coordinated pattern looks deliberate. It tells the driver this is not a random hazard. This is an active incident with people working. Auto Sync flares add that professional, synchronized movement that pulls attention and holds it, especially in rain, fog, glare, and darkness.

That is why the U.F.O.s, Auto Sync flares, and portable arrow lights earn their place. These tools create a larger visual footprint than a single person or truck, and they buy you things that you

cannot manufacture on the shoulder, time and distance.

My stance is simple. Visibility is not about looking cool. It is about buying time and distance. Time for drivers to process. Distance for them to maneuver. A bigger buffer for the operator working inches from moving traffic.

If we want to reduce struck by

incidents, we cannot rely on hope. We need better tools and better habits. We need to make visibility part of every callout, every time.

DARKWING TECH.

Be Safe. Be Smart. Be Seen!

For this product and great products shop: jbtow.com

HAZMAT HAPPENS:

IS YOUR TOWING COMPANY READY?

Here are the “straight-up” reasons why towing and recovery operations benefit from offering hazmat services: financially, competitively, operationally and more revenue per call. Hazmat cleanup is a premium service. Fuel spills, oil, coolant, chemicals, and cargo leaks all require specialized response, and that means higher invoices than a standard tow. One accident can turn into towing

plus cleanup, materials plus labor, extended on-scene time and that adds up fast!

There are fewer missed opportunities when a spill happens, and if you don’t offer hazmat services, you’re forced to call another company, wait on a third party, and lose part of the job. Offering hazmat services lets you keep the entire response in-house, so you control the timeline and the payout. Stronger relationships with law enforcement and

DOTs provide quick, compliant scene clearance. Tow companies that can tow and clean up get called first and get put on the preferred rotation list. Build more trust with municipalities that lead to more long-term calls, not just hazmat calls. Competitive edge over other towers will happen because most tow companies can pull a vehicle. Far fewer can safely handle spills.

HAZMAT & SPILL CONTROL

Hazmat capability sets you apart in bids and contracts and makes your company more “all-in-one”. It positions you as a professional recovery operator, not just a tow truck driver. Roadway

clearance spills slow everything down. If you can handle the cleanup immediately, roads reopen FASTER, traffic backups are reduced, and scene commanders appreciate you. Speed

TALK IN REAL TIME With Apex Team Wireless Headsets you just talk. No buttons to push and no waiting for anyone else to stop talking. Microphones are live all the time compared to other brands that are voice activated. The most critical first couple of words may be missed.

equals reputation, reputation equals repeat business protection from liability. Proper Hazmat training and procedures help reduce environmental fines, prevent secondary accidents, protect your drivers and the company. Doing cleanups the right way is safer than letting spills sit or relying on untrained responders growth into larger contracts. Hazmat capability opens doors to commercial fleet accounts, industrial accounts, and highway incident programs. It’s a steppingstone from “Local Tow Company” to Regional Response Provider, Hazmat Responder. Network’s training is designed for the towing and recovery industry. Following the rules and regulations compliant with OSHA standards within “HAZWOPER” Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response guidelines. HRN provides classroom and hands-on instruction for participants for proper dressing out and decontamination, ground and bonding, tapping drums and saddle tanks for evacuation of fuels and chemicals.

provide the correct equipment for the task responders face.

Hazmat Responder Network also offers “CARGO TANK AWARENESS” training using simulators to show responders plumbing, appurtenances related to DOT 406, DOT 407, and DOT 412 cargo tank trailers. This is also offered as an 8-hour one-day course

and serves as an annual refresher for technicians.

REMEMBER: YOU CAN’T STAND OUT, IF YOU JUST BLEND IN!

Hazmat Responder Network partnered with its affiliate company, Logos Inc., which produces an array of hazmat products, equipment, and supplies known as FlowStop, can advise and

Handle Any Leak or Spill with Spill Tackle

Seasoned towing and recovery professionals know to show up to an accident scene prepared to handle any mess. Front-end collisions and punctured fuel tanks tend to result in fuel spills and coolant leaks. How quickly they respond makes a huge difference, so an effective emergency

response kit is typically the first line of defense.

In addition to plugs, socks, brooms, shovels and trash cans, tow operators should also carry a good amount of granular absorbent material.

A top seller at Zip’s AW Direct is Spill Tackle, a lightweight organic compound made from reclaimed

agricultural and forestry materials. Spill Tackle absorbs on contact and biodegrades along with the hydrocarbon fluids it traps.

Besides its environmental friendliness, Spill Tackle is also highly effective, much more so than traditional floor dry or kitty litter. In fact, its absorbent properties are four times more absorbent than other sweeping compounds, meaning you can do more with less. Just ask Chuck Anderson, operations manager for Valley Environmental Response at Neenah, WI.

“Using Spill Tackle has been a gamechanger for us. Sure, it costs more, but one 20-pound bag of Spill Tackle does the job of three to four bags of regular oil dry,” Anderson said. “It does not soak up water like regular oil dry does and is much lighter, so when you go to retrieve it and dispose of it, it is At Zip’s AW Direct, Spill Tackle is

easier to recover and less expensive to dispose of.”

Safe for outdoor applications, Spill Tackle leaves no residue and can be disposed of at municipal landfills. Tests by the EPA show the compound doesn’t leach back, and the sustainable material is also “bio-preferred” by the USDA. Spill Tackle is extremely safe to use and is great for spill containment. The manufacturer stands behind their product and guarantees customer satisfaction.

At Zip’s AW Direct, Spill Tackle is available in bulk quantities of 20-pound bags and is also sold in convenient response kits and handy five-gallon buckets. Smaller quantities are also available in two- and five-pound bags. The smaller sizes are resealable and can be easily stored on a shelf, under a seat or in a toolbox. The five-pound bag is also resealable and is just as effective as 30 pounds of clay.

If fuel and coolant leaks are common in your line of work, then make sure you keep Spill Tackle absorbent materials close by. Besides accident cleanup, this granular compound also works great around fuel islands and helps keep shop floors clean, dry and free from slip hazards. Learn more at www.Zips.com/ spill-tackle.

Lifting & Landing Bags

anding and Lifting Bags are becoming essential tools for professional heavyduty towing and recovery companies. Designed from durable, flexible rubber, these bags are capable of handling substantial loads. They use compressed air to lift heavy objects, upright overturned vehicles, or shift loads to the desired location. Each bag is typically equipped with a color-coded supply line for quick identification during recovery

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operations, ensuring efficiency and organization on the scene.

These versatile tools are indispensable in various recovery scenarios. For

example, during a heavy-duty rollover recovery, such as a tractor-trailer tipped over in a ditch, a series of lift bags can be placed beneath the trailer’s side wall.

LIFTING & LANDING BAGS

As the bags inflate, they work in tandem with wide straps and slings from the wrecker to help upright the vehicle.

To control the descent and minimize damage, catch or control bags are placed under the casualty. These bags cushion the vehicle as it tips back into position, with the air gradually released to allow a smooth landing. This dual-use approach, for both lifting and descent, mitigates the risk of further damage to the vehicle,

its cargo, and critical components such as rims, tires and suspension systems.

Landing and Lifting Bags offer an additional advantage: they help preserve cargo integrity by minimizing the need for a time-consuming and costly offload of freight. Semi-trailer walls, which may lack the structural strength for recovery relying solely on straps, benefit significantly from the added support provided by these bags.

Beyond operational benefits, these tools present a valuable revenue opportunity. Towing operators can charge a dedicated line item for their use, generating additional income while delivering superior service.

Industry professionals are already experiencing the benefits. CARS

Towing and Recovery, based in Uptown, NY, shared their positive experiences:

“We are always working to expand our equipment and increase our efficiency. We also do our best to ensure that our crew is safe and cause no further damage

to our customers’ vehicles. These landing cushions will save us having to run extra winch lines as catch lines during a rollover recovery and increase the safety on scene for everyone.”

To learn more about Landing and Lifting Bags or to purchase them, visit www.Zips.com.

YOUR PARTNER ON EVERY CALL.

Every call is your chance to shine, and Hino tow trucks are built to perform when it counts—strong, reliable, and trusted by operators nationwide. With Hino Edge connectivity, an exclusive standard 5-year Allison Transmission warranty, and 24/7 HinoWatch roadside assistance. At Hino, our commitment doesn't end when the truck is sold - it's where The Ultimate Ownership Experience begins, because for you, it's always MORE THAN A TRUCK.