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FLASH: France on the brink of chaos, tow operators on the front line

On 30/06/2023

For several days that the riots have persisted throughout the country, LDM, The Towing Magazine recalls in the midst of these riots, the risks incurred by first aid responders, including tow truck operators.

Asked to evacuate vehicles that have been burned, looted or stolen by thugs, tow operators have to face the risk of attacks of uncontrollable violence.

Tow truck operators requisitioned by the police to evacuate and clear public roads are subjected to direct violence on their person or on their tow truck. See threats of reprisals from the attackers if they carry out the work entrusted to them, namely to evacuate the vehicles immobilizing the public roads blocking the intervention of the police.

LDM, The Towing Magazine advises all tow truck operators to be extremely vigilant in this context of intervention under judicial or police requisition for a pound. And to postpone any intervention resulting from a non-emergency roadside assistance call.

Tow truck operators working 24 hours a day have already been attacked in sensitive areas by groups of several dozen individuals.

The greatest caution to consider for an intervention of towing, impound, or judicial requisition. Support from the police during an intervention is unfortunately not an absolute weapon at the time of writing this message.

The security of the premises of the recovery operators must be reinforced in anticipation of overflows from the attackers who are now out of control. Voluntary fires in garages have repeatedly proven the vulnerability of automotive professionals.

David Lockwood
©LDM, The Towing Magazine

Photo credit: AFP

Towing Impound Recovery France protesters crime

In Readers feedback

FOR OR AGAINST TOWING FRENCH FARMERS' TRACTORS?

On 02/02/2024

From LDM, The Towing Magazine

Do not hesitate to respond by posting a comment after opening the message.

Between supporting farmers' right to protest: Blocking roads is a common form of protest, and farmers have the right to voice their grievances and demand change.
Put pressure on the government: Disruptions can force the government to take action and respond more seriously to farmers' demands.

And the public disruption this causes: Dams significantly disrupt the daily lives of citizens, causing traffic jams, economic losses and inconvenience. This can lead to frustration and resentment towards farmers.
Public Safety Concerns: Parked tractors can create safety hazards, especially if they block emergency vehicles or impede essential services.

Could towing companies really refuse to intervene if a duly completed requisition was sent to them?
Between the risk of loss of prefectural approvals, the economic repercussions, the loss of credibility with local authorities and the possible recourse to the courts...

What is your opinion? Please feel free to post your comment below.

In News

FLASH 4: End of the guerrilla warfare, tow operators on all fronts.

On 03/07/2023

After five nights and as many days of guerrilla warfare in all the French departments, tow truck operators are on all fronts to remove burned cars, trucks and buses.

In News

230630133540 02 nanterre france berlinger jpg

FLASH 3: Guerrilla warfare in France, tow operators no longer load at night

On 02/07/2023

A fifth night of riots took place overnight from Saturday to Sunday in all French departments. This Sunday evening in France, LDM, The Towing Magazine collected the testimonials of towing companies solicited on these risk areas.