Ottawa tow company, driver facing charges after moving vehicle from crash
Posted May 19, 2026 01:47:39 PM.
Last Updated May 19, 2026 03:18:27 PM.
Provincial police laid numerous charges in relation to an investigation where a person’s vehicle was towed from a crash scene without their consent.
According to a release, Southway Towing Inc. and one of its drivers are facing offences. This is the eighth time Southway Towing has faced charges from provincial police. To date, 30 charges have been laid against the company in the last two years.
Officials said that the charges against the company include tow operator – fail to ensure workers comply with Act and regulations.
The driver is facing the charges of:
- Provide or offer towing services within 200 meters of a collision, apparent collision or collision vehicle
- Tow truck driver – engage in prohibited practice
- Tow truck driver – provide or attempt to provide services without consent
- Tow opertator – fail to comply with prescribed requirements and standards
In December 2024, provincial police laid charges in another incident involving Southway Towing. The offences were related to issues with payment, consent and failing to provide information. In several incidents, police explained that they started investigating after a person said the tow company refused to release their vehicle from the impound yard.
The vehicle was towed there against the owner’s wishes after a collision. The company then told the owner they had to pay more than $5,000 for one week of storage.
Police said if a person feels they are being overcharged or a tow company refuses to give back their vehicle (to the owner or insurance company), victims can file a complaint here.
“An individual has the right to select their own tow company. They also have the right to tell the tow company where to take the vehicle,” Constable Michael Fathi, of the OPP, said.
