DEAR Editor,-
I must join in the age-old debate and discussion about tow truck drivers and operators and their branding of being labeled ‘vultures’. Arguments about them driving recklessly in pursuit of getting to accident scenes first, harassing people involved in accidents in order to tow vehicles away, and even getting into physical confrontations with rival companies have been highlighted in numerous television documents, radio programmes and newspapers.
Today, I add my voice to this debate and discussion after obtaining a first-hand experience with one of these tow truck drivers. I must add my voice to echo sentiments that they are most definitely ‘vultures’. My experience happened about a month ago when I had to go into the Port Edward CBD to run a few errands. Unfortunately, my vehicle had a puncture along the way and I was forced to stop near the golf course on Owen Ellis Drive.
I am a 64-year-old woman and do not possess the physical strength to change a tyre by myself. I stood outside my vehicle and suddenly saw a white tow truck approaching from the opposite direction a few minutes later. I quickly flagged him down and he duly stopped, which I thought was delightful. An Indian gentleman stepped out and, after explaining my predicament to him, I asked if he would not mind assisting me? His immediate response was to ask me if I had insurance. “Call them and get me a reference number first,” was what I was told.
I explained that I could not call anybody as my cell phone battery had died, as well as the fact that I did not have any insurance. To which the rude reply I received was “I can’t help you,” and, with that, he walked towards his tow truck, got in, and drove off!
You sir, deserve the name ‘vulture’ that your colleagues in the industry have been branded with for so many years. The fact that I did not have any insurance, from which you wanted to claim for changing a tyre on an old woman’s vehicle, is very sad. You would only have assisted me for your betterment, and financial gain, if you were able to make a quick few rands.
Thankfully there are still good Samaritans in this world. Sikhumbuzo (unfortunately I did not get his surname), was walking past at the same time and after being privy to the entire conversation, he came up to me and said “Don’t worry, ma’m, I will help you.” It took him just a matter of minutes to replace the damaged tyre and I was all set to be on my way again. He did this for no financial reward at all.
Thank you, dear Sikhumuzo! The rude tow truck driver should take a page out of your book.
JANET WILLIAMS
Port Edward
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