KUALA LUMPUR: Instead of getting your car repaired with ease of mind after an accident, you may end up forking out even more if you agree to use the services of unscrupulous tow truck operators, warns the General Insurance Association of Malaysia (PIAM).
An accident victim may end up getting his car towed to workshops that pay the highest bid offered by the rogue tow truck operator, said PIAM chief executive officer Chua Kim Soon.
“This is where the problems continue,” he said in an interview.
According to Chua, the price of repairs will also be inflated as workshops have to make up for the cost paid to “get” the car.
“At the end of the day, costs will be passed down back to you,” he said.
He said cars sent to non-panel workshops can be subject to dubious practices, including the use of substandard parts or questionable workmanship.
“Instead of proper repairs, parts could be replaced with those from a ‘kereta potong’ (chop shop) or even worse, dents may just be hammered out.
“And instead of getting your car repaired swiftly, the situation may drag and a fee may even have to be paid to retrieve your car,” he said.
He said the risks are worse for electric vehicles, which require specialised tools and certified personnel.
Chua said there is also the chance that some dubious tow truck operators can even disguise themselves by having insurance company stickers on their trucks.
“Don’t be fooled. Anyone can paste a sticker, and some of these men may be ex-providers who never removed them,” he said,
Chua advised motorists to always call their insurers directly after an accident.
“Most companies now have apps that connect you instantly. But if not, keep your insurance policy in the glove box. Those with road tax discs can also find the insurer’s contact number there,” he said.
In any situation, he urged those involved in road crashes to stay calm, even when faced with unscrupulous tow truck operators.
“Decline them politely and contact your operator or insurer. You’ve already paid for your motor vehicle insurance so you should use it.
“It also saves you the hassle of worrying about whether the vehicle is undergoing proper repairs and has genuine parts,” he said.
