Everyday KY Tow Hero
Round of applause to Stephen Mulberry of Owens Wrecker Service who helped police catch the driver who hit this 12-year-old girl and drove away!
The 12 year-old girl who was struck by a hit-and-run driver Monday needs surgery to repair her injured knees.
The girl, Meghan Roehrich, was with her younger brother about 3 p.m. when a van driving toward Corbin on Cumberland Falls Highway struck her, according to Angie Cook, owner of This & That, a business located next to the Roehrichs’ home.
The van never stopped after the girl was struck.
Cook, who was among those who dialed 911, said she ran outside to help Meghan. Another neighbor, Rita Hensler, who said she heard a “thud” then looked outside her window only to see Meghan on the highway, also dialed 911. Hensler went outside to see if the girl was conscious and a passerby who stopped to help told her an ambulance was already on its way.
As they waited for the ambulance, cook said Meghan was quiet at first, then she asked for her father, Stephen Roehrich, who was already by her side, Cook said. Meghan then asked for Cook’s son, who had attended Oak Grove Elementary School with her.
Cook said her sons held sheets above Meghan to shield her from the hot sun.
“She didn’t cry one time,” Cook said, adding that Meghan did say her back hurt as rescuers and good Samaritans helped to transfer her onto a gurney.
Hensler said she later talked to Meghan’s grandmother and heard the girl had been transferred from Baptist Regional Medical Center to University of Kentucky Medical Center.
“When they said they airlifted her, we knew she was in trouble,” Hensler said.
Corbin police said the girl was in serious condition Monday. On Tuesday, Cook said a family member told her Meghan was in fair condition and was expected to have surgery to repair injuries to her leg and knee.
Cook also said Meghan had stitches to repair an injury to her head and that her pelvis was fractured.
Hensler said the highway remained closed for two hours as the police investigation began.
After Meghan was struck, a description of the van was announced over the radio. A tow truck driver, Stephen Mulberry of Owens Wrecker Service, spotted the van and followed it to a residence on the northeast corner of 11th Street and Kentucky Avenue. Several minutes later, Col. Bruce Rains of the Corbin Police Department arrested the driver, Michael Petrey, 42.
Petrey was booked into the Whitley County Detention Center Monday and charged with second-degree assault, leaving the scene of an accident, driving without a license and failure to maintain required insurance, according to Whitley County Detention Center records.
The investigation by Corbin police continues.
To help collections are being taken to benefit Meghan Roehrich, 12, who suffered serious injuries after she was struck by a hit-and-run driver Monday.
Angie Cook, owner of This & That, located along Cumberland Falls Highway between I-75 and KY 727, said she will donate to the Roehrich family half of her profit from sales at her store Wednesday and Thursday. She will also have a jar taking cash donations. Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cook has arranged for donations to be accepted and a moment of prayer for the Roehrich family to be observed Friday at a free karaoke night in the parking lot of Sing and Dance. The event begins at 7:30 p.m.
Oak Grove Elementary School is collecting money and gift cards for the Roehrich family. For more information, call 549-7867
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
Tow Truck Operator Gets 14 Years In Plea Deal
Saturday, July 24, 2010CA Tow Truck Operator Gets 14 Years In Plea Deal
Here's an update in the long-running case of CA tow truck operator Vincent Cardinalli from the Hollister Free Lance:
In a move that took prosecutors by surprise, a tow truck operator who has spent three years in jail awaiting trial pleaded no contest to 99 felonies and one misdemeanor.
Vincent Cardinalli, a 67-year-old San Benito County resident, pleaded no contest to a litany of embezzlement, perjury, forgery and other charges the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office brought against him after uncovering a tow and sue scam Cardinalli ran with his two children and a son-in-law. He will likely serve 14 years in prison, said prosecutor Victor Chen, who just took over the massive case this week. He credited former prosecutor Dale Lohman and one of the scam's victims, Greg Adler, with the work leading up to the plea.
Without them, "he would clearly still be victimizing people," Chen said.
Chen met with Cardinalli's defense attorney this morning for a readiness hearing prior to his trial, which was scheduled to take place Aug. 16. At previous hearings, "every offer he floated to us was ridiculous," Chen said. "We certainly didn't expect him to plead today."
Chen said he expects a sentencing hearing to be scheduled later this year.
Earlier this year, Cardinalli's son, tow truck operator Paul Greer, 33, pleaded no contest to 59 felony counts, according to prosecutors. His charges included 26 counts of attempted grand theft, 14 counts of perjury, 13 counts of subornation of perjury, three counts of embezzlement and one count each of conspiracy to obstruct justice, presentation of false evidence and burglary. Greer will receive eight years in prison, Lohman said earlier this year.
Cardinalli's daughter, Rosemary Ball, 35, also pleaded no contest to one count of conspiracy to obstruct justice, one count of attempted grand theft and one count of perjury, according to the District Attorney's office. Her husband, Michael Ball, 39, pleaded no contest to one felony count of attempted grand theft. They will be sentenced to between four and six months of county jail and 150 days of electronic monitoring
Here's an update in the long-running case of CA tow truck operator Vincent Cardinalli from the Hollister Free Lance:
In a move that took prosecutors by surprise, a tow truck operator who has spent three years in jail awaiting trial pleaded no contest to 99 felonies and one misdemeanor.
Vincent Cardinalli, a 67-year-old San Benito County resident, pleaded no contest to a litany of embezzlement, perjury, forgery and other charges the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office brought against him after uncovering a tow and sue scam Cardinalli ran with his two children and a son-in-law. He will likely serve 14 years in prison, said prosecutor Victor Chen, who just took over the massive case this week. He credited former prosecutor Dale Lohman and one of the scam's victims, Greg Adler, with the work leading up to the plea.
Without them, "he would clearly still be victimizing people," Chen said.
Chen met with Cardinalli's defense attorney this morning for a readiness hearing prior to his trial, which was scheduled to take place Aug. 16. At previous hearings, "every offer he floated to us was ridiculous," Chen said. "We certainly didn't expect him to plead today."
Chen said he expects a sentencing hearing to be scheduled later this year.
Earlier this year, Cardinalli's son, tow truck operator Paul Greer, 33, pleaded no contest to 59 felony counts, according to prosecutors. His charges included 26 counts of attempted grand theft, 14 counts of perjury, 13 counts of subornation of perjury, three counts of embezzlement and one count each of conspiracy to obstruct justice, presentation of false evidence and burglary. Greer will receive eight years in prison, Lohman said earlier this year.
Cardinalli's daughter, Rosemary Ball, 35, also pleaded no contest to one count of conspiracy to obstruct justice, one count of attempted grand theft and one count of perjury, according to the District Attorney's office. Her husband, Michael Ball, 39, pleaded no contest to one felony count of attempted grand theft. They will be sentenced to between four and six months of county jail and 150 days of electronic monitoring
Monday, July 26, 2010
Can I Make An Automobile Donation Even If The Vehicle Doesn’t Run?
Automobile Donation Process
This is always being asked. People often only donate a car that that likely would not sell that easily. So it makes sense that a large number of donations are automobiles that don’t run. This is a great way to help out but you have to be sure your donation is going to help and not cost the charity more to process then they will get out of it.
Many charities work with a wrecker. This is the company that will come out and tow your old automobile for donation. They also process the automobile and sell off the part if the vehicle isn’t able to be fixed and can send it out to be repaired if there is only a couple things wrong with it. You really need to just talk with the charity you plan to make an automobile donation too and see what system the have set up for donations of this type.
There was a recent story from Winnipeg, Canada where a wrecker was donating the proceeds from every recycled car they processed in a year to Habitat for Humanity. The whole goal was to be able to build a house for a local family. A great goal and an example of how a charity can work with the wrecker to achieve a common goal.
The main thing you have to be sure of is that the charity is able to process this type of donation. Not every charity is set up to handle automobile donations that don’t run. It is a simple process with little cost. With an automobile donation that does not run then there are added processing cost, repairs, towing , etc. This can cost far more then the actual value of the car and this of course defeats the purpose of donating.
Talk with charities and find out if they can handle this type of automobile donation. Then you can be assured that you are going to make the biggest contribution instead of costing money in the end.
There are a few considerations in donating an automobile that doesn’t run. The tires need to be inflated. The automobile will need to be towed or loaded onto a flatbed truck to be taken away and if the tires are flat then it will be more difficult to remove.
You also have to make sure the automobile is intact. It doesn’t do any good to donate a car where a bunch of the good parts have already been sold off. The idea behind donating an automobile is for them to sell off the good, usable part then have the metal recycled. If many of the good parts are gone then whats the point?
The whole point of donating is to help the charity. If you are making an automobile donation then be sure you are not costing the charity more in processing.
This is always being asked. People often only donate a car that that likely would not sell that easily. So it makes sense that a large number of donations are automobiles that don’t run. This is a great way to help out but you have to be sure your donation is going to help and not cost the charity more to process then they will get out of it.
Many charities work with a wrecker. This is the company that will come out and tow your old automobile for donation. They also process the automobile and sell off the part if the vehicle isn’t able to be fixed and can send it out to be repaired if there is only a couple things wrong with it. You really need to just talk with the charity you plan to make an automobile donation too and see what system the have set up for donations of this type.
There was a recent story from Winnipeg, Canada where a wrecker was donating the proceeds from every recycled car they processed in a year to Habitat for Humanity. The whole goal was to be able to build a house for a local family. A great goal and an example of how a charity can work with the wrecker to achieve a common goal.
The main thing you have to be sure of is that the charity is able to process this type of donation. Not every charity is set up to handle automobile donations that don’t run. It is a simple process with little cost. With an automobile donation that does not run then there are added processing cost, repairs, towing , etc. This can cost far more then the actual value of the car and this of course defeats the purpose of donating.
Talk with charities and find out if they can handle this type of automobile donation. Then you can be assured that you are going to make the biggest contribution instead of costing money in the end.
There are a few considerations in donating an automobile that doesn’t run. The tires need to be inflated. The automobile will need to be towed or loaded onto a flatbed truck to be taken away and if the tires are flat then it will be more difficult to remove.
You also have to make sure the automobile is intact. It doesn’t do any good to donate a car where a bunch of the good parts have already been sold off. The idea behind donating an automobile is for them to sell off the good, usable part then have the metal recycled. If many of the good parts are gone then whats the point?
The whole point of donating is to help the charity. If you are making an automobile donation then be sure you are not costing the charity more in processing.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Tow Truck Shooter Arrested, Cops Block Wreckers From Accident Info
Tow Truck Shooter Arrested, Cops Block Wreckers From Accident Info
Are Philly’s tow truck wars already over?
An alleged gun-man in this week’s towing blow-up has been arrested, and the police have changed the rules to prevent future problems, no longer broadcasting accident information over radios that wreckers can listen in on.
Jose LaTorre, Jr., wanted for Monday’s shooting of Mystical Towing driver Angel Carrera, turned himself into police last night. The shooting allegedly was the result of a dispute between LaTorre and Carrera over a potential customer after an accident on Hunting Park Avenue.
Action News spoke with the owner of Mystical:
“LaTorre told him he couldn’t talk to his customer,” Mystical owner John Campbell said of the employee who was shot. “He told (LaTorre), `Well, I don’t see no tow truck there.”‘
LaTorre had been on the run ever since. The suspect’s father, Jose LaTorre Sr.,the owner of J & Sons Towing, did not return several messages left at the family business.
. . .
Campbell, 35, said he has talked by phone to LaTorre Jr. and encouraged him to surrender so they can put the feud behind them. “None of this is good for business,” he said.
After the shooting a bunch of cars at J & Sons got torched, and someone fired a gun at Mystical’s office building.
In response to the violence, police say they will now transmit minor accident information over laptops instead of their radios so the wreckers won’t get the drop on them. It’s not a perfect solution, says the Inky:
Police radio is generally more effective because officers who hear the calls and are near an accident sometimes arrive sooner than officers who receive a specific call for help.
“It’s a trade-off, and we are going to have to weigh certain factors,” [Deputy Commissioner Jack] Gaittens said. “We are not looking to replace police-radio transmissions and tie up the [computers].”
The Daily News adds that dispatchers will start calling for a tow truck before the police even arrive at the accident to help fend off future brew-ha-has.
Before, the radio room would wait until a cop got to the scene and radio back in for a tow. Now, the dispatcher asks the caller if the vehicles are blocking a highway or sidewalk, if there is a safety concern and if a tow is needed. Then the dispatcher contacts the next tow company in the rotation and dispatches police officers, Gaittens said.
Councilman Jim Kenney has called for legislation to mandate that the dispatchers call the towing companies in advance, and also fines for wreckers who show up uninvited. It all sounds good, but Philadelphia has implemented tough towing laws before. Councilman Frank Rizzo got a “rotational towing” system passed two years ago in which police call tow trucks from a list to spread out the business, but the rule has been largely ignored, mostly because the tow trucks got to accidents before the police could.
Because the new rules block access to accident info, they are more likely to stick. But come on, aren’t tow truck wars more exciting than parking wars?
Are Philly’s tow truck wars already over?
An alleged gun-man in this week’s towing blow-up has been arrested, and the police have changed the rules to prevent future problems, no longer broadcasting accident information over radios that wreckers can listen in on.
Jose LaTorre, Jr., wanted for Monday’s shooting of Mystical Towing driver Angel Carrera, turned himself into police last night. The shooting allegedly was the result of a dispute between LaTorre and Carrera over a potential customer after an accident on Hunting Park Avenue.
Action News spoke with the owner of Mystical:
“LaTorre told him he couldn’t talk to his customer,” Mystical owner John Campbell said of the employee who was shot. “He told (LaTorre), `Well, I don’t see no tow truck there.”‘
LaTorre had been on the run ever since. The suspect’s father, Jose LaTorre Sr.,the owner of J & Sons Towing, did not return several messages left at the family business.
. . .
Campbell, 35, said he has talked by phone to LaTorre Jr. and encouraged him to surrender so they can put the feud behind them. “None of this is good for business,” he said.
After the shooting a bunch of cars at J & Sons got torched, and someone fired a gun at Mystical’s office building.
In response to the violence, police say they will now transmit minor accident information over laptops instead of their radios so the wreckers won’t get the drop on them. It’s not a perfect solution, says the Inky:
Police radio is generally more effective because officers who hear the calls and are near an accident sometimes arrive sooner than officers who receive a specific call for help.
“It’s a trade-off, and we are going to have to weigh certain factors,” [Deputy Commissioner Jack] Gaittens said. “We are not looking to replace police-radio transmissions and tie up the [computers].”
The Daily News adds that dispatchers will start calling for a tow truck before the police even arrive at the accident to help fend off future brew-ha-has.
Before, the radio room would wait until a cop got to the scene and radio back in for a tow. Now, the dispatcher asks the caller if the vehicles are blocking a highway or sidewalk, if there is a safety concern and if a tow is needed. Then the dispatcher contacts the next tow company in the rotation and dispatches police officers, Gaittens said.
Councilman Jim Kenney has called for legislation to mandate that the dispatchers call the towing companies in advance, and also fines for wreckers who show up uninvited. It all sounds good, but Philadelphia has implemented tough towing laws before. Councilman Frank Rizzo got a “rotational towing” system passed two years ago in which police call tow trucks from a list to spread out the business, but the rule has been largely ignored, mostly because the tow trucks got to accidents before the police could.
Because the new rules block access to accident info, they are more likely to stick. But come on, aren’t tow truck wars more exciting than parking wars?
Friday, July 23, 2010
A recent shooting in Philly has led to some new rules... Here's the story from The Philadelphia Inquirer:
Friday, July 23, 2010New Rules For Towing In Philly
A recent shooting in Philly has led to some new rules... Here's the story from The Philadelphia Inquirer:
News of traffic accidents in Philadelphia is no longer being dispatched over the airwaves. City officials hope the new policy will lead tow-truck drivers to ditch their police scanners and stop harassing motorists. Instead, police are being alerted to accidents through written electronic messages delivered directly to laptop computers in their cars.
Additionally, radio dispatchers have been instructed to call for a tow truck, if warranted at an accident scene, when they inform police of the accident. Until now, tow trucks were not requested until officers were on site.
Both practices took effect Thursday, a consequence of the historically aggressive activity of tow-truck companies that this week resulted in gunfire, sending one driver to the hospital, as well as the torching of 13 cars in one company's care.
"I don't think there is a thing [the tow-truck companies] can do about" the new policies, Deputy Police Commissioner Jack Gaittens said.
Exceptions will be made for collisions with serious injuries, he said.
Police radio is generally more effective because officers who hear the calls and are near an accident sometimes arrive sooner than officers who receive a specific call for help.
"It's a trade-off, and we are going to have to weigh certain factors," Gaittens said. "We are not looking to replace police-radio transmissions and tie up the [computers]."
This week's criminal activities marked a low in the decades-long struggle to better regulate the tow-truck operators, some of whom descend on accident victims and persuade shaken-up drivers to agree to services that often result in exorbitant bills.
One of those allegedly involved in this week's violence surrendered to police Thursday evening. Jose LaTorre Jr. turned himself in around 6:30 at 25th District headquarters in North Philadelphia, Lt. Frank Vanore, a police spokesman, said. LaTorre faces charges of aggravated assault and related offenses.
LaTorre, a son of the owner of J & Sons Auto Body, arrived at the scene of a North Philadelphia accident on Monday to claim the tow job, though he was driving his Cadillac Escalade. When a driver for Mystical Towing showed up in a tow truck, a dispute erupted over which company would get the job. LaTorre allegedly then shot the Mystical driver in the left thigh and fled.
At least two City Council members are seeking to impose stronger rules for notifying tow companies, including Frank Rizzo, whose 2008 legislation resulted in the creation of a vetted list of tow-truck operators called by police on a rotating basis.
Told of the new policy minimizing transmissions on the airwaves, Rizzo - who suggested that change to Gaittens early Thursday - said: "That absolutely solves 99 percent of the problems. This pulls the plug on their ability to get information."
Nonetheless, some tow-truck operators are not convinced the new policies will change much - or that much change is needed.
"It's always worked smooth for me. I don't have any problems with the wreck chasers," said Giovanni Salvatore, a dispatcher at Towing By the Hook. "A lot of times, there is no other tower there but me."
On the other hand, Jeff Hartka of Jeff's Towing Service, said the rotation program was a failure to begin with. In the two years it has been in effect, he said, "Nobody has ever called me. Not once."
Councilman Jim Kenney is calling for additional changes.
His legislation, which he said he plans to introduce when Council reconvenes in September, would require dispatchers to contact tow-truck drivers when they call for officers - and would institute a fine for other tow trucks showing up on the scene.
Given the current controversy, Kenney said, he would like the current rotation list suspended, and instead have police use the same tow-truck operators they use to retrieve stolen cars.
"They've been vetted, they are insured, and their drivers have background checks," he said.
Motorists who break down or have accidents should call AAA if they have it, or for roadside assistance through their car dealer, Jana Tidwell, a AAA Mid-Atlantic spokeswoman, said.
Another option is for drivers to call their auto insurance companies, which usually can recommend local tow-truck companies, she said.
"We've known for many years that this is a serious problem in Philadelphia," she said. "Unfortunately, the rotational tow system is not being utilized as intended."
A recent shooting in Philly has led to some new rules... Here's the story from The Philadelphia Inquirer:
News of traffic accidents in Philadelphia is no longer being dispatched over the airwaves. City officials hope the new policy will lead tow-truck drivers to ditch their police scanners and stop harassing motorists. Instead, police are being alerted to accidents through written electronic messages delivered directly to laptop computers in their cars.
Additionally, radio dispatchers have been instructed to call for a tow truck, if warranted at an accident scene, when they inform police of the accident. Until now, tow trucks were not requested until officers were on site.
Both practices took effect Thursday, a consequence of the historically aggressive activity of tow-truck companies that this week resulted in gunfire, sending one driver to the hospital, as well as the torching of 13 cars in one company's care.
"I don't think there is a thing [the tow-truck companies] can do about" the new policies, Deputy Police Commissioner Jack Gaittens said.
Exceptions will be made for collisions with serious injuries, he said.
Police radio is generally more effective because officers who hear the calls and are near an accident sometimes arrive sooner than officers who receive a specific call for help.
"It's a trade-off, and we are going to have to weigh certain factors," Gaittens said. "We are not looking to replace police-radio transmissions and tie up the [computers]."
This week's criminal activities marked a low in the decades-long struggle to better regulate the tow-truck operators, some of whom descend on accident victims and persuade shaken-up drivers to agree to services that often result in exorbitant bills.
One of those allegedly involved in this week's violence surrendered to police Thursday evening. Jose LaTorre Jr. turned himself in around 6:30 at 25th District headquarters in North Philadelphia, Lt. Frank Vanore, a police spokesman, said. LaTorre faces charges of aggravated assault and related offenses.
LaTorre, a son of the owner of J & Sons Auto Body, arrived at the scene of a North Philadelphia accident on Monday to claim the tow job, though he was driving his Cadillac Escalade. When a driver for Mystical Towing showed up in a tow truck, a dispute erupted over which company would get the job. LaTorre allegedly then shot the Mystical driver in the left thigh and fled.
At least two City Council members are seeking to impose stronger rules for notifying tow companies, including Frank Rizzo, whose 2008 legislation resulted in the creation of a vetted list of tow-truck operators called by police on a rotating basis.
Told of the new policy minimizing transmissions on the airwaves, Rizzo - who suggested that change to Gaittens early Thursday - said: "That absolutely solves 99 percent of the problems. This pulls the plug on their ability to get information."
Nonetheless, some tow-truck operators are not convinced the new policies will change much - or that much change is needed.
"It's always worked smooth for me. I don't have any problems with the wreck chasers," said Giovanni Salvatore, a dispatcher at Towing By the Hook. "A lot of times, there is no other tower there but me."
On the other hand, Jeff Hartka of Jeff's Towing Service, said the rotation program was a failure to begin with. In the two years it has been in effect, he said, "Nobody has ever called me. Not once."
Councilman Jim Kenney is calling for additional changes.
His legislation, which he said he plans to introduce when Council reconvenes in September, would require dispatchers to contact tow-truck drivers when they call for officers - and would institute a fine for other tow trucks showing up on the scene.
Given the current controversy, Kenney said, he would like the current rotation list suspended, and instead have police use the same tow-truck operators they use to retrieve stolen cars.
"They've been vetted, they are insured, and their drivers have background checks," he said.
Motorists who break down or have accidents should call AAA if they have it, or for roadside assistance through their car dealer, Jana Tidwell, a AAA Mid-Atlantic spokeswoman, said.
Another option is for drivers to call their auto insurance companies, which usually can recommend local tow-truck companies, she said.
"We've known for many years that this is a serious problem in Philadelphia," she said. "Unfortunately, the rotational tow system is not being utilized as intended."
Tow War In Philly?
PHILADELPHIA – July 21, 2010 (WPVI) — Philadelphia police are investigating a pair of incidents overnight that might be the start of a war between rival towing companies.
About 12 or 13 cars were set on fire just before 1:00 a.m. in the rear lot of J & Sons Auto Collision located on the 3100 block of N 2nd St in the Hunting Park section of Philadelphia. There were no injuries reported.
“If the Philadelphia Fire Department didn’t respond as quick as it did I would have lost everything,” said Jose LaTorre, Sr., owner of J & Sons.
The Philadelphia Fire Department has declared this a suspicious fire.
Meanwhile, Philadelphia Police report that someone fired about 6 bullets into the Mystical Towing office building around 1:30 a.m. Wednesday on the 100 block of West Ashdale Street in the Olney section of Philadelphia.
The owner and his wife were in the building, but nobody was hurt.
“I heard a couple of different bangs, I didn’t know it was gunshots at first,” said John Campbell, owner of Mystical Towing. “I came outside, then when I came in is when I noticed all the holes in the walls.”
Police are trying to figure out if the fire and shooting are in any way linked to Monday morning’s shooting between two tow truck drivers from J & Sons Towing and Mystical Towing.
The shooting happened at the scene of a minor crash at Whitaker and Hunting Park avenues. Police say Jose LaTorre, Jr., apparently arrived at the scene first, driving a black Cadillac Escalade. He’s also the son of the owner of J & Son’s Towing.
At one point a tow truck from Mystical Towing, driven by Anabel Carrera, also arrived and an argument ensued.
“The guy in the Escalade sees the guy in the tow truck, tells the guy to move his truck because he blocked him in with the tow truck,” said witness Jack Roth.
The shooting happened after that argument, Roth said, and LaTorre took off. He remains at large.
LaTorre, Sr. said he has not doubt the fire at his shop Wednesday morning was an act of retaliation.
PHILADELPHIA – July 21, 2010 (WPVI) — Philadelphia police are investigating a pair of incidents overnight that might be the start of a war between rival towing companies.
About 12 or 13 cars were set on fire just before 1:00 a.m. in the rear lot of J & Sons Auto Collision located on the 3100 block of N 2nd St in the Hunting Park section of Philadelphia. There were no injuries reported.
“If the Philadelphia Fire Department didn’t respond as quick as it did I would have lost everything,” said Jose LaTorre, Sr., owner of J & Sons.
The Philadelphia Fire Department has declared this a suspicious fire.
Meanwhile, Philadelphia Police report that someone fired about 6 bullets into the Mystical Towing office building around 1:30 a.m. Wednesday on the 100 block of West Ashdale Street in the Olney section of Philadelphia.
The owner and his wife were in the building, but nobody was hurt.
“I heard a couple of different bangs, I didn’t know it was gunshots at first,” said John Campbell, owner of Mystical Towing. “I came outside, then when I came in is when I noticed all the holes in the walls.”
Police are trying to figure out if the fire and shooting are in any way linked to Monday morning’s shooting between two tow truck drivers from J & Sons Towing and Mystical Towing.
The shooting happened at the scene of a minor crash at Whitaker and Hunting Park avenues. Police say Jose LaTorre, Jr., apparently arrived at the scene first, driving a black Cadillac Escalade. He’s also the son of the owner of J & Son’s Towing.
At one point a tow truck from Mystical Towing, driven by Anabel Carrera, also arrived and an argument ensued.
“The guy in the Escalade sees the guy in the tow truck, tells the guy to move his truck because he blocked him in with the tow truck,” said witness Jack Roth.
The shooting happened after that argument, Roth said, and LaTorre took off. He remains at large.
LaTorre, Sr. said he has not doubt the fire at his shop Wednesday morning was an act of retaliation.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Truck Towing
Tow trucks, also called wreckers, are used to clear disabled vehicles off highways and speedways. They constitute an emergency service that is of considerable importance in this age of heavy vehicle flow across the world. Without their efficient service, this flow would grind to a halt in less than no time.
Most tow trucks are run by private enterprises and are operated in fleets that specialize in quick road clearance and retrieval services. They are in a perfect position to supply captive customers to repair businesses and are an integral part of their economy. The government road authorities have their own tow truck fleets to service highways and areas like toll stations where bottlenecks are likely to occur if a vehicle breaks down.
There are various kinds of tow trucks in operation today, from the most rudimentary to the highly specialized. The most basic kind is the hook-and-chain truck, and it is still in extensive use in third-world countries. It employs chains that lift the broken-down vehicle by the axle with the help of a boom winch.
From this concept came the axle-cradling tow truck, which sports a single-unit yoke that can lift the front end of the disabled vehicle into the air for easy towing. The lifting mechanism is either hydraulically or pneumatically operated. This is arguably the quickest kind of towing and is often used in traffic control.
Flatbeds are used for long-distance towing. The flatbed accommodates the entire disabled vehicle piggyback. It does this by lowering a flat metal surface to the ground, making it possible for the broken-down vehicle to either drive or be drawn onto the back of the truck by a winch. There are also various combinations of the above-described tow trucks in existence.
Most tow trucks are run by private enterprises and are operated in fleets that specialize in quick road clearance and retrieval services. They are in a perfect position to supply captive customers to repair businesses and are an integral part of their economy. The government road authorities have their own tow truck fleets to service highways and areas like toll stations where bottlenecks are likely to occur if a vehicle breaks down.
There are various kinds of tow trucks in operation today, from the most rudimentary to the highly specialized. The most basic kind is the hook-and-chain truck, and it is still in extensive use in third-world countries. It employs chains that lift the broken-down vehicle by the axle with the help of a boom winch.
From this concept came the axle-cradling tow truck, which sports a single-unit yoke that can lift the front end of the disabled vehicle into the air for easy towing. The lifting mechanism is either hydraulically or pneumatically operated. This is arguably the quickest kind of towing and is often used in traffic control.
Flatbeds are used for long-distance towing. The flatbed accommodates the entire disabled vehicle piggyback. It does this by lowering a flat metal surface to the ground, making it possible for the broken-down vehicle to either drive or be drawn onto the back of the truck by a winch. There are also various combinations of the above-described tow trucks in existence.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
City tow truck plan on track despite protest
I guess they figured out who was responding," he said.
S&E Towing is one of a number of firms protesting a proposed city wrecker service pay plan they say is unfair. The city's last wrecker rotation agreement expired in 2002, and companies have been self-regulating since.
The new proposal, which is set for a vote by the City Council next week, caps wrecker service fees on most jobs at $75 and storage fees at $25 a day after the first day. The fees would apply to calls placed by the city to tow stolen and abandoned vehicles, parking violators, cars of people arrested by JPD, and vehicles involved in traffic accidents where the owner does not express a preference of company.
In the absence of a contract, most wrecker companies have been charging about $125 for tows. Street said he is in favor of greater regulation by the city, but his company cannot afford the cut mandated by this contract.
"We've had to govern ourselves," he said. "Some of us do a good job at that and some of us don't, but trying to feed us a contract that is $50 less than we have been doing for the last four years is ridiculous."
Council President Frank Bluntson said he is unmoved by the complaints.
"They have a right to do what they want to do," he said of the companies involved in the protest. "That's their business, but we have a right to protect the citizens of Jackson."
Poorer residents cannot afford to pay $125 to be towed from an accident, he said. "We have to look out for our constituents," Bluntson said.
Street said the city wants to cut wrecker company fees but has not cut its own storage fees and fines for towed vehicles.
City spokesman Chris Mims said the protest has not interfered with service.
"There were a couple of companies who did not answer the phone or refused to tow (Monday) night," he said Tuesday. "But we moved to the next available tow company on the list as we customarily have done."
The contract passed the council's planning committee Monday on a 3-0 vote. The full council will cast a final vote at its meeting July 27.
"We voted on the agreement that the Police Department said was in the best interest of the citizens of Jackson," Bluntson said.
S&E Towing is one of a number of firms protesting a proposed city wrecker service pay plan they say is unfair. The city's last wrecker rotation agreement expired in 2002, and companies have been self-regulating since.
The new proposal, which is set for a vote by the City Council next week, caps wrecker service fees on most jobs at $75 and storage fees at $25 a day after the first day. The fees would apply to calls placed by the city to tow stolen and abandoned vehicles, parking violators, cars of people arrested by JPD, and vehicles involved in traffic accidents where the owner does not express a preference of company.
In the absence of a contract, most wrecker companies have been charging about $125 for tows. Street said he is in favor of greater regulation by the city, but his company cannot afford the cut mandated by this contract.
"We've had to govern ourselves," he said. "Some of us do a good job at that and some of us don't, but trying to feed us a contract that is $50 less than we have been doing for the last four years is ridiculous."
Council President Frank Bluntson said he is unmoved by the complaints.
"They have a right to do what they want to do," he said of the companies involved in the protest. "That's their business, but we have a right to protect the citizens of Jackson."
Poorer residents cannot afford to pay $125 to be towed from an accident, he said. "We have to look out for our constituents," Bluntson said.
Street said the city wants to cut wrecker company fees but has not cut its own storage fees and fines for towed vehicles.
City spokesman Chris Mims said the protest has not interfered with service.
"There were a couple of companies who did not answer the phone or refused to tow (Monday) night," he said Tuesday. "But we moved to the next available tow company on the list as we customarily have done."
The contract passed the council's planning committee Monday on a 3-0 vote. The full council will cast a final vote at its meeting July 27.
"We voted on the agreement that the Police Department said was in the best interest of the citizens of Jackson," Bluntson said.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Jackson Wreckers Go on Strike
Workers with more than a dozen wrecker companies contracted by the City of Jackson are on strike.
This could mean longer waits if you call for a tow truck, and it could mean traffic slow-downs for drivers trying to get around a broken-down vehicle.
“I want the public to know that yes we will pull for our regular customer,“ said Trey Ward, owner of Ward Wrecker Service. “If you call us directly we will come and get you. We’re not going to deny you service.“
Some 15 companies are involved. Workers want higher fees for the services they provide the city. These companies are on JPD’s rotation list and are called to tow vehicles that are abandoned or involved in crashes or crime scenes.
Monday members of the Jackson City Council Planning Committee approved a $10 increase in wrecker fees. It’s been $65. It would bring that up to $75 for vehicles towed to city impound lots.
The fee is $125 for vehicles taken to private lots.
The wrecker companies want $125 for all tows, which is already the going rate in cities in Rankin, Madison and Warren Counties.
Councilman Kenneth Stokes says if the wrecker services have their way, Jackson residents would also have to pay higher towing fees which he says would create a financial hardship.
“There’s no way in the city of Jackson we can allow the wrecker service to charge 100-150 dollars, plus storage,“ Stokes said. “We just can’t do it. You’re robbing Peter to pay Paul. Robbing the poor people in this city.“
The full council is set to vote on the proposed service fees next Tuesday, but the wrecker companies are not backing down until they reach a price agreement.
This could mean longer waits if you call for a tow truck, and it could mean traffic slow-downs for drivers trying to get around a broken-down vehicle.
“I want the public to know that yes we will pull for our regular customer,“ said Trey Ward, owner of Ward Wrecker Service. “If you call us directly we will come and get you. We’re not going to deny you service.“
Some 15 companies are involved. Workers want higher fees for the services they provide the city. These companies are on JPD’s rotation list and are called to tow vehicles that are abandoned or involved in crashes or crime scenes.
Monday members of the Jackson City Council Planning Committee approved a $10 increase in wrecker fees. It’s been $65. It would bring that up to $75 for vehicles towed to city impound lots.
The fee is $125 for vehicles taken to private lots.
The wrecker companies want $125 for all tows, which is already the going rate in cities in Rankin, Madison and Warren Counties.
Councilman Kenneth Stokes says if the wrecker services have their way, Jackson residents would also have to pay higher towing fees which he says would create a financial hardship.
“There’s no way in the city of Jackson we can allow the wrecker service to charge 100-150 dollars, plus storage,“ Stokes said. “We just can’t do it. You’re robbing Peter to pay Paul. Robbing the poor people in this city.“
The full council is set to vote on the proposed service fees next Tuesday, but the wrecker companies are not backing down until they reach a price agreement.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Tower in Jackson Miss wants more money for towing
JACKSON, Miss. -- The Jackson City Council planning committee will discuss setting a cap on how much wrecker services can charge you to tow your car.
After more than a decade, the contract with the city is up for negotiation.
Competitors in the wrecker service business came together on common ground Sunday night.
They want more money in their contracts with the city of Jackson.
"You see the city raise rates yet we can't raise ours," said Trey Ward.
Ward's wrecker service is one company on the city's tow truck rotation list.
These companies are contracted out with the city. Right now, when the city calls a wrecker to tow a vehicle, the fee is $65. A proposed ordinance would increase the cost to $75. Ward said that's not enough.
"You're going to see businesses -- I'm not going to say fold -- but leave the city of Jackson," said Ward. "You're going to see the increase time in wrecks, because there are not going to be that many people who are willing to do the rotation."
Wrecker services contracted in Rankin County and the cities within charge a flat rate of $125 for towing. The wrecker services said that's more in line with what they'd like to see in the city of Jackson, but City Councilman Kenneth Stokes said that's not affordable.
"I understand about gasolines and trucks and everything else, but if these citizens don't have the money to get their cars out of tow then you talking about citizens who are going to lose their cars," said Stokes.
"They say their constituents can't afford to pay that, but everybody in the surrounding areas can. So why can't the people in the city of Jackson?" said Ward. Ward said for now, wrecker services aren't planning on a strike. He said they just want to reopen contract negotiations with the city.
After more than a decade, the contract with the city is up for negotiation.
Competitors in the wrecker service business came together on common ground Sunday night.
They want more money in their contracts with the city of Jackson.
"You see the city raise rates yet we can't raise ours," said Trey Ward.
Ward's wrecker service is one company on the city's tow truck rotation list.
These companies are contracted out with the city. Right now, when the city calls a wrecker to tow a vehicle, the fee is $65. A proposed ordinance would increase the cost to $75. Ward said that's not enough.
"You're going to see businesses -- I'm not going to say fold -- but leave the city of Jackson," said Ward. "You're going to see the increase time in wrecks, because there are not going to be that many people who are willing to do the rotation."
Wrecker services contracted in Rankin County and the cities within charge a flat rate of $125 for towing. The wrecker services said that's more in line with what they'd like to see in the city of Jackson, but City Councilman Kenneth Stokes said that's not affordable.
"I understand about gasolines and trucks and everything else, but if these citizens don't have the money to get their cars out of tow then you talking about citizens who are going to lose their cars," said Stokes.
"They say their constituents can't afford to pay that, but everybody in the surrounding areas can. So why can't the people in the city of Jackson?" said Ward. Ward said for now, wrecker services aren't planning on a strike. He said they just want to reopen contract negotiations with the city.
Local Inconsistencies discovered in police reports of judge’s SUV crash
Carico, 40, a former Wise County prosecutor and once Virginia’s deputy attorney general, departed the bench suddenly and without explanation in early June. Since then, law enforcement officers have confirmed testifying before the state’s Judicial Inquiry and Review Commission about the events surrounding the wreck.
The 911 records and law enforcement logs could have painted a clear picture of the events that transpired immediately after the wreck. Instead, a Bristol Herald Courier review has uncovered some inconsistencies.
For example, Wise Volunteer Fire Chief Conley Holbrook initially told a reporter that firefighters arrived at the scene after paramedics and sheriff’s deputies had control of the accident.
Yet the 911 report clearly shows that firefighters arrived before the Wise Volunteer Rescue Squad. In fact, the department’s incident report shows that a firefighter treated Carico’s injured passenger.
Also unclear are the whereabouts after the scene was cleared that night of four law enforcement officers dispatched to help.
The two county deputies handling the call are missing for at least an hour after the judge’s SUV is towed away and the scene is cleared, according to 911 logs and a timeline provided by tow truck driver Jack Hubbard.
The 911 report shows that two University of Virginia at Wise campus police officers were called to the scene, and more than three hours later were cleared and available for another assignment.
While campus police reports confirm that two officers were called to help, those reports also show the officers were told moments later not to come, however Law enforcement
Carico slammed his SUV into a tree and a group of large rocks lining Pole Bridge Road after swerving to miss a deer at 1:18 a.m., police records show.
Wise County Sheriff’s Deputy Jarrod Bates said he wrapped up his involvement with Carico’s wreck moments after a tow truck pulled the SUV from a ditch and left.
Hubbard, of J & F Wrecker Service, estimates he pulled the Nissan Pathfinder from a shallow ditch by 3 a.m., at the latest. And he remembers that only two people were there – since verified as Bates and Lt. Shawn Daniels – each leaving in separate cars at the same time.
Yet the 911 report shows that Bates and Daniels finished covering the wreck and were available for another call at 4:05 a.m., slightly more than an hour after leaving Pole Bridge Road.
When asked where his officers could have been, Sheriff R.D. “Ronnie” Oakes said he didn’t know but suggested they might have been at the hospital with Carico’s injured passenger, Jeremy Hubbard.
Hubbard, no relation to the tow truck driver, was jailed by the judge in recent years over shoplifting charges. He said in an interview for a previous story that no officers came to the hospital that night.
Oakes has confirmed that one of his deputies chauffeured Carico to his home, slightly less than three miles away on the same road as the crash. But Oakes will not say which deputy drove the judge home or when.
Also keeping silent is Bates, who said he can’t discuss anything about the wreck that was included in his testimony to the Judicial Inquiry and Review Commission, which investigates the conduct of Virginia’s judges.
“I would talk about this, but I’ve been given a stern talking to not to,” he said.
Daniels, who filed the wreck report, could not be reached for comment.
Campus police
University of Virginia’s College at Wise Police Chief Steve McCoy readily produced a pair of daily police logs showing that his officers did not respond to the Carico wreck.
Thank God my men were not involved with that,” he said. “I know where you’re going with this.”
On one report, Officer Jeremy Price wrote that he was called to the scene, and started to go, but was called off “after other deputies showed up.”
In another report, Officer Mike Mullins wrote that his call to the scene was “cancelled before arrival by deputies.”
Those campus reports contradict the report on file with 911 emergency dispatch, which has two campus officers listed as available to take other calls at 3:14 a.m., slightly less than two hours after being called to help. McCoy said he didn’t have an answer for the discrepancy. “You’ll have to ask 911 about that,” he said.
Wise County Dispatch Supervisor Nancy Mullins, when asked Thursday how her office might have a different account of events, said she needed permission from the county attorney to talk about dispatch procedure. Mullins did not call back with an answer by the end of business Friday.
Fire and rescue
When first approached, Wise Volunteer Fire Chief Holbrook said his department had little involvement with Carico’s wreck.
Everything was pretty much taken care of by the time we got there, so we just turned around and came back,” Holbrook said of his firefighters.
But the 911 report later obtained by the Herald Courier shows the Fire Department on scene four minutes before Wise Rescue Squad arrived in an ambulance.
When later asked about the 911 report, Holbrook introduced firefighter Adam Cox, the licensed emergency medical technician who first treated Hubbard.
Cox, the only firefighter on the scene licensed to give medical treatment, said he treated only Hubbard, and does not recall seeing or hearing any mention of Carico.
Within minutes of arriving by Hubbard’s side, Cox said he transferred patient treatment over to the rescue squad. The 911 report shows the ambulance leaving the scene and bound for the hospital after spending roughly 20 minutes on Pole Bridge Road.
But the report does not show precisely when the rescue squad took over patient treatment. Only the rescue squad has that information.
At first, squad Capt. Jim Dotson said the times of arrival, reaching the patient, and then heading to the hospital were protected medical information.
When told that the 911 report already provided some of those times, he said the squad sometimes bases its medical reports on the times supplied by emergency dispatchers. At other times, it bases its reports on the squad’s own clock, he said. He then directed the reporter back to the county’s 911 office.
Dotson then refused to answer when asked whether his squad used its own times for the medical reports detailing Hubbard’s treatment, or those supplied by 911. “I’m not going to answer questions that you already have the answers to,” he said, walking away.
The 911 records and law enforcement logs could have painted a clear picture of the events that transpired immediately after the wreck. Instead, a Bristol Herald Courier review has uncovered some inconsistencies.
For example, Wise Volunteer Fire Chief Conley Holbrook initially told a reporter that firefighters arrived at the scene after paramedics and sheriff’s deputies had control of the accident.
Yet the 911 report clearly shows that firefighters arrived before the Wise Volunteer Rescue Squad. In fact, the department’s incident report shows that a firefighter treated Carico’s injured passenger.
Also unclear are the whereabouts after the scene was cleared that night of four law enforcement officers dispatched to help.
The two county deputies handling the call are missing for at least an hour after the judge’s SUV is towed away and the scene is cleared, according to 911 logs and a timeline provided by tow truck driver Jack Hubbard.
The 911 report shows that two University of Virginia at Wise campus police officers were called to the scene, and more than three hours later were cleared and available for another assignment.
While campus police reports confirm that two officers were called to help, those reports also show the officers were told moments later not to come, however Law enforcement
Carico slammed his SUV into a tree and a group of large rocks lining Pole Bridge Road after swerving to miss a deer at 1:18 a.m., police records show.
Wise County Sheriff’s Deputy Jarrod Bates said he wrapped up his involvement with Carico’s wreck moments after a tow truck pulled the SUV from a ditch and left.
Hubbard, of J & F Wrecker Service, estimates he pulled the Nissan Pathfinder from a shallow ditch by 3 a.m., at the latest. And he remembers that only two people were there – since verified as Bates and Lt. Shawn Daniels – each leaving in separate cars at the same time.
Yet the 911 report shows that Bates and Daniels finished covering the wreck and were available for another call at 4:05 a.m., slightly more than an hour after leaving Pole Bridge Road.
When asked where his officers could have been, Sheriff R.D. “Ronnie” Oakes said he didn’t know but suggested they might have been at the hospital with Carico’s injured passenger, Jeremy Hubbard.
Hubbard, no relation to the tow truck driver, was jailed by the judge in recent years over shoplifting charges. He said in an interview for a previous story that no officers came to the hospital that night.
Oakes has confirmed that one of his deputies chauffeured Carico to his home, slightly less than three miles away on the same road as the crash. But Oakes will not say which deputy drove the judge home or when.
Also keeping silent is Bates, who said he can’t discuss anything about the wreck that was included in his testimony to the Judicial Inquiry and Review Commission, which investigates the conduct of Virginia’s judges.
“I would talk about this, but I’ve been given a stern talking to not to,” he said.
Daniels, who filed the wreck report, could not be reached for comment.
Campus police
University of Virginia’s College at Wise Police Chief Steve McCoy readily produced a pair of daily police logs showing that his officers did not respond to the Carico wreck.
Thank God my men were not involved with that,” he said. “I know where you’re going with this.”
On one report, Officer Jeremy Price wrote that he was called to the scene, and started to go, but was called off “after other deputies showed up.”
In another report, Officer Mike Mullins wrote that his call to the scene was “cancelled before arrival by deputies.”
Those campus reports contradict the report on file with 911 emergency dispatch, which has two campus officers listed as available to take other calls at 3:14 a.m., slightly less than two hours after being called to help. McCoy said he didn’t have an answer for the discrepancy. “You’ll have to ask 911 about that,” he said.
Wise County Dispatch Supervisor Nancy Mullins, when asked Thursday how her office might have a different account of events, said she needed permission from the county attorney to talk about dispatch procedure. Mullins did not call back with an answer by the end of business Friday.
Fire and rescue
When first approached, Wise Volunteer Fire Chief Holbrook said his department had little involvement with Carico’s wreck.
Everything was pretty much taken care of by the time we got there, so we just turned around and came back,” Holbrook said of his firefighters.
But the 911 report later obtained by the Herald Courier shows the Fire Department on scene four minutes before Wise Rescue Squad arrived in an ambulance.
When later asked about the 911 report, Holbrook introduced firefighter Adam Cox, the licensed emergency medical technician who first treated Hubbard.
Cox, the only firefighter on the scene licensed to give medical treatment, said he treated only Hubbard, and does not recall seeing or hearing any mention of Carico.
Within minutes of arriving by Hubbard’s side, Cox said he transferred patient treatment over to the rescue squad. The 911 report shows the ambulance leaving the scene and bound for the hospital after spending roughly 20 minutes on Pole Bridge Road.
But the report does not show precisely when the rescue squad took over patient treatment. Only the rescue squad has that information.
At first, squad Capt. Jim Dotson said the times of arrival, reaching the patient, and then heading to the hospital were protected medical information.
When told that the 911 report already provided some of those times, he said the squad sometimes bases its medical reports on the times supplied by emergency dispatchers. At other times, it bases its reports on the squad’s own clock, he said. He then directed the reporter back to the county’s 911 office.
Dotson then refused to answer when asked whether his squad used its own times for the medical reports detailing Hubbard’s treatment, or those supplied by 911. “I’m not going to answer questions that you already have the answers to,” he said, walking away.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Specially engineered Taurus-based sedan will replace Crown Victoria as it goes out of production.
Ford Police Interceptor will come in front- or all-wheel drive with a choice of two V6 engines. (Photo: Ford)
Ford rolled out its next-generation Police Interceptor for law-enforcement that will replace the ubiquitous Crown Victoria police car when its goes out of production late next year.
The new police model is a front- or all-wheel-drive purpose-built sedan based on the Ford Taurus, which Ford said “will exceed the durability, safety, performance and fuel economy of the industry’s leading police car – the Ford Crown Victoria.”
The Crown Vic has been the market leader for police vehicles for the past 15 years. But the old-style body-on-frame, rear-drive sedan is little changed during that time and is becoming outdated.
“Police nationwide asked for a new kind of weapon in the battle for public safety, and Ford is answering the call with a purpose-built vehicle – engineered and built in America – that’s as dynamic as it is durable,” said Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas.
Nearly 90 percent of the interior has been designed specifically to meet the needs of law enforcement, including a column shifter, customized seats to accommodate officers' utility belts and a media center for electronic accessories. (Photo: Ford) Ford engineers worked closely with the automaker’s Police Advisory Board, comprised of law-enforcement professionals who provided input regarding safety, performance, durability, driver comfort and functionality, the company said.
Safety and durability were the primary qualities sought by the law-enforcement advisors, said Scott Tobin, Ford vehicle line director for cars and crossovers, and the new Police Interceptor has been engineered for the highest level of crash-worthiness and occupant protection.
The Ford Police Interceptor will be available with two V6-engine options that Ford says perform as well as or better than most available V8s while providing superior fuel mileage.
A naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 delivers 263 horsepower with 25 percent better fuel efficiency than the 4.6-liter V8 that powers current Crown Vic police cars.
A new 3.5-liter Ecoboost V6 with twin turbochargers and direct injection provides 365 horsepower and 350 ft.-lb. of torque across a broad rpm range, according to Ford. A high-capacity six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission and torque-sensing all-wheel-drive will enhance the capabilities of the Ecoboost engine.
“We have an extremely powerful standard engine, and to top that off, we also offer our exclusive EcoBoost technology,” said Tobin. “Both are designed for the severe-duty cycle that police engage in on a daily basis.”
For the increased durability and performance required for police work, the Police Interceptor comes with bigger, more-powerful brakes with 18-inch steel wheels that are vented for brake cooling; a heavy-duty alternator; and a purpose-built cooling package that features a larger radiator and a honeycomb grille to increase air flow throughout the vehicle.
Ford’s new Police Interceptor sedan will be manufactured at Ford’s Chicago Assembly Plant and will be offered when production of the Crown Victoria Police Interceptor ends in late 2011.
Competing with the new Ford Police Interceptor are law-enforcement sedans offered by the other domestic brands, with General Motors providing a special version of Impala and Chrysler selling a Dodge Charger police car.
Ford rolled out its next-generation Police Interceptor for law-enforcement that will replace the ubiquitous Crown Victoria police car when its goes out of production late next year.
The new police model is a front- or all-wheel-drive purpose-built sedan based on the Ford Taurus, which Ford said “will exceed the durability, safety, performance and fuel economy of the industry’s leading police car – the Ford Crown Victoria.”
The Crown Vic has been the market leader for police vehicles for the past 15 years. But the old-style body-on-frame, rear-drive sedan is little changed during that time and is becoming outdated.
“Police nationwide asked for a new kind of weapon in the battle for public safety, and Ford is answering the call with a purpose-built vehicle – engineered and built in America – that’s as dynamic as it is durable,” said Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas.
Nearly 90 percent of the interior has been designed specifically to meet the needs of law enforcement, including a column shifter, customized seats to accommodate officers' utility belts and a media center for electronic accessories. (Photo: Ford) Ford engineers worked closely with the automaker’s Police Advisory Board, comprised of law-enforcement professionals who provided input regarding safety, performance, durability, driver comfort and functionality, the company said.
Safety and durability were the primary qualities sought by the law-enforcement advisors, said Scott Tobin, Ford vehicle line director for cars and crossovers, and the new Police Interceptor has been engineered for the highest level of crash-worthiness and occupant protection.
The Ford Police Interceptor will be available with two V6-engine options that Ford says perform as well as or better than most available V8s while providing superior fuel mileage.
A naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 delivers 263 horsepower with 25 percent better fuel efficiency than the 4.6-liter V8 that powers current Crown Vic police cars.
A new 3.5-liter Ecoboost V6 with twin turbochargers and direct injection provides 365 horsepower and 350 ft.-lb. of torque across a broad rpm range, according to Ford. A high-capacity six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission and torque-sensing all-wheel-drive will enhance the capabilities of the Ecoboost engine.
“We have an extremely powerful standard engine, and to top that off, we also offer our exclusive EcoBoost technology,” said Tobin. “Both are designed for the severe-duty cycle that police engage in on a daily basis.”
For the increased durability and performance required for police work, the Police Interceptor comes with bigger, more-powerful brakes with 18-inch steel wheels that are vented for brake cooling; a heavy-duty alternator; and a purpose-built cooling package that features a larger radiator and a honeycomb grille to increase air flow throughout the vehicle.
Ford’s new Police Interceptor sedan will be manufactured at Ford’s Chicago Assembly Plant and will be offered when production of the Crown Victoria Police Interceptor ends in late 2011.
Competing with the new Ford Police Interceptor are law-enforcement sedans offered by the other domestic brands, with General Motors providing a special version of Impala and Chrysler selling a Dodge Charger police car.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Jul14th Seattle Personal Injury Attorney Offers 12 Answers to Common Auto Insurance Questions
It seems as though many people do not give as much thought as they should as to what needs to be done after an auto accident, especially when it comes to auto insurance. In order to help motorists plan what course of action to take, the 12 most common auto insurance questions are answered in the following article.
How can I save money on my car insurance?
There are many ways to save money on car insurance and still maintain safe levels of coverage. First of all, make sure you choose the right car. Before buying a car, check with your agent to see how much the rate for the car you have chosen will be and if the car payment and the premium fit your budget. You may also want to choose a higher deductible. If you increase your portion of the risk, your insurance premium can be decreased. You can save nearly half the cost by raising your collision and comprehensive deductibles from $250 to $500 or higher. However, be aware that you will have to pay the higher deductible any time you use these coverages. Always take advantage of special discounts that most insurance companies offer. For example, discounts are available to young drivers who are good students or have taken a drivers’ education course. Discounts are also available to seniors through a variety of programs. Furthermore, make sure to eliminate duplicate coverage. You may have coverages that overlap, such as medical coverage and health care, or collision and uninsured motorist property damage Ask your agent to explain what each coverage offers. Definitely shop around before choosing an insurance company. Because each company’s rates are based on its own loss experience, the premium charged by different companies can be different for the same driver. Remember, though, the cheapest insurance isn’t necessarily the best.
I was involved in a Washington automobile accident. What should I do? Notify the police to file an accident report. Notify your company or agent if necessary. Find your automobile policy and read it. How long does the company have to respond?
Every state has slightly different rules; but generally speaking, an insurer (insurance company) should complete its investigation within thirty days after notification of a claim, unless such investigation cannot reasonably be completed within that time. If an insurer is unable to contact or locate its policyholder, the investigation may take longer. If they can’t complete the investigation within 30 days they are required to keep you updated on the progress of their investigation.
What if their insured won’t file a claim?
You cannot force an insured, or policy holder, to file a claim. However, every insurer, upon receiving notification of a claim, must respond within ten working days to acknowledge the receipt of such notice unless a payment has been made within that period of time. They also must provide claim forms and help in having their insured report the claim.
Their insured was cited by the police. Why do they have to investigate?
Remember, a traffic citation is not a determination of legal liability. The insurance company must investigate claims made according to language in the policy. It is possible that there may be more one person at fault and the liability would be shared.
I have “full coverage.” Why won’t my company pay?
This is a common misunderstanding, as there is no definition of “full coverage”. The coverages that you actually have are listed on the declaration page you get from your company at renewal time. They are the ones that are listed that have a price beside them. There are additional coverages that you must request, such as towing, rental, and extended coverage for special stereo or other equipment.
Do they owe me a rental car, and for how long?
You are entitled to be compensated for the loss of use of your vehicle for a reasonable length of time while it is under repairs or not drivable, if the other party’s insurance is accepting liability. It is usual company practice to provide loss of use until the first offer is made for a total loss settlement amount. If your company is handling the damages you must have rental coverage on your policy to obtain a rental car.
Can I take my car wherever I want to have it fixed?
While you are free to choose the shop you want to do the work, the insurer owes only the going rate for repairs in your area. In other words, if the shop you choose charges a higher labor rate, you may end up paying the difference.
What happens if the estimates don’t match?
The repair shop will usually work with the adjuster to handle any additional costs that occur. These could be due to hidden damage or parts price differences, for example. If the company and the shop can’t agree, it is the responsibility of the company to provide the name of a repair shop that is a reasonable distance from where you live, and that will repair your vehicle for the amount of the estimate.
Can they use non-brand name parts or used parts?
While they do not necessarily have to replace parts with new ones, the company does owe you repair or replacement with like kind and quality parts. The repair requirements state that if the parts and repairs are guaranteed by the repair shop, and are in the same condition as the parts damaged, that is acceptable. If you insist on certain parts you may have to pay the additional cost.
I don’t want it fixed right now. Can they pay me the repair amount?
Policies regarding payment of damage amounts vary from company to company. Your company may have policy language regarding whether it is necessary to repair your vehicle, or to make the draft payable to a lien holder or a body shop and the owner. If the other party’s company is paying they are required to pay either the registered owner or the lien holder, or both. A direct payment to the owner usually will not allow for any supplemental payments for addition damage.
They’ve declared my vehicle a total loss but won’t pay me enough to replace it. Is this legal?
You are owed the fair market value of your vehicle (before the auto accident), by the company. You can determine this amount by using local dealer quotes and/or newspaper ads or other auto sales publications, as long as the vehicle being sold is comparable to yours in mileage, condition, options, etc. Additionally, they will pay you sales tax on the value of your vehicle, and pay the unused portion of your registration fees. You may have the option of purchasing your damaged vehicle as salvage, and paying the company the amount they would get if they sold it to a wrecker.
How can I save money on my car insurance?
There are many ways to save money on car insurance and still maintain safe levels of coverage. First of all, make sure you choose the right car. Before buying a car, check with your agent to see how much the rate for the car you have chosen will be and if the car payment and the premium fit your budget. You may also want to choose a higher deductible. If you increase your portion of the risk, your insurance premium can be decreased. You can save nearly half the cost by raising your collision and comprehensive deductibles from $250 to $500 or higher. However, be aware that you will have to pay the higher deductible any time you use these coverages. Always take advantage of special discounts that most insurance companies offer. For example, discounts are available to young drivers who are good students or have taken a drivers’ education course. Discounts are also available to seniors through a variety of programs. Furthermore, make sure to eliminate duplicate coverage. You may have coverages that overlap, such as medical coverage and health care, or collision and uninsured motorist property damage Ask your agent to explain what each coverage offers. Definitely shop around before choosing an insurance company. Because each company’s rates are based on its own loss experience, the premium charged by different companies can be different for the same driver. Remember, though, the cheapest insurance isn’t necessarily the best.
I was involved in a Washington automobile accident. What should I do? Notify the police to file an accident report. Notify your company or agent if necessary. Find your automobile policy and read it. How long does the company have to respond?
Every state has slightly different rules; but generally speaking, an insurer (insurance company) should complete its investigation within thirty days after notification of a claim, unless such investigation cannot reasonably be completed within that time. If an insurer is unable to contact or locate its policyholder, the investigation may take longer. If they can’t complete the investigation within 30 days they are required to keep you updated on the progress of their investigation.
What if their insured won’t file a claim?
You cannot force an insured, or policy holder, to file a claim. However, every insurer, upon receiving notification of a claim, must respond within ten working days to acknowledge the receipt of such notice unless a payment has been made within that period of time. They also must provide claim forms and help in having their insured report the claim.
Their insured was cited by the police. Why do they have to investigate?
Remember, a traffic citation is not a determination of legal liability. The insurance company must investigate claims made according to language in the policy. It is possible that there may be more one person at fault and the liability would be shared.
I have “full coverage.” Why won’t my company pay?
This is a common misunderstanding, as there is no definition of “full coverage”. The coverages that you actually have are listed on the declaration page you get from your company at renewal time. They are the ones that are listed that have a price beside them. There are additional coverages that you must request, such as towing, rental, and extended coverage for special stereo or other equipment.
Do they owe me a rental car, and for how long?
You are entitled to be compensated for the loss of use of your vehicle for a reasonable length of time while it is under repairs or not drivable, if the other party’s insurance is accepting liability. It is usual company practice to provide loss of use until the first offer is made for a total loss settlement amount. If your company is handling the damages you must have rental coverage on your policy to obtain a rental car.
Can I take my car wherever I want to have it fixed?
While you are free to choose the shop you want to do the work, the insurer owes only the going rate for repairs in your area. In other words, if the shop you choose charges a higher labor rate, you may end up paying the difference.
What happens if the estimates don’t match?
The repair shop will usually work with the adjuster to handle any additional costs that occur. These could be due to hidden damage or parts price differences, for example. If the company and the shop can’t agree, it is the responsibility of the company to provide the name of a repair shop that is a reasonable distance from where you live, and that will repair your vehicle for the amount of the estimate.
Can they use non-brand name parts or used parts?
While they do not necessarily have to replace parts with new ones, the company does owe you repair or replacement with like kind and quality parts. The repair requirements state that if the parts and repairs are guaranteed by the repair shop, and are in the same condition as the parts damaged, that is acceptable. If you insist on certain parts you may have to pay the additional cost.
I don’t want it fixed right now. Can they pay me the repair amount?
Policies regarding payment of damage amounts vary from company to company. Your company may have policy language regarding whether it is necessary to repair your vehicle, or to make the draft payable to a lien holder or a body shop and the owner. If the other party’s company is paying they are required to pay either the registered owner or the lien holder, or both. A direct payment to the owner usually will not allow for any supplemental payments for addition damage.
They’ve declared my vehicle a total loss but won’t pay me enough to replace it. Is this legal?
You are owed the fair market value of your vehicle (before the auto accident), by the company. You can determine this amount by using local dealer quotes and/or newspaper ads or other auto sales publications, as long as the vehicle being sold is comparable to yours in mileage, condition, options, etc. Additionally, they will pay you sales tax on the value of your vehicle, and pay the unused portion of your registration fees. You may have the option of purchasing your damaged vehicle as salvage, and paying the company the amount they would get if they sold it to a wrecker.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Roadside Assistance: Needed Coverage Or Wasted Money?
July 13th, 2010 Everyone likes the security of a roadside assistance program. Someone is there to help you regardless of the time of day or the weather conditions. It’s great to have someone to call when you are dressed to go out and the car won’t start or you come out to find a flat tire in the driveway. But what should you look for in an emergency road service program? The first step is to determine what you hope to gain by buying a roadside assistance plan. I had a cousin who never had the coverage until his daughter went off to college about 75 miles away. His idea was that he could get to his vehicle when it was in trouble locally but an hour away presented a whole different set of problems. This brings up the question: Do I really need a roadside assistance plan? Think about your recent history and if the need for towing or tire assistance has occurred. Consider what you are driving, the number miles on it and how reliable it is. Is the need for this coverage immediate and real? If you recently bought a new car, replaced a starter on your existing car or have towing coverage within your auto insurance package you might not even need a stand-alone program. Many car manufacturers’ bumper to bumper warranties come with roadside assistance coverage. The purchase of a NAPA rebuilt starter, for example, comes with towing reimbursement if the starter fails (a flat tire is another story) during the warranty period. The point here is to inventory your access to emergency help to see if what your needs are already fulfilled. Membership in an auto club for a year is going to cost anywhere from $30 to $100, depending on how inclusive the plan is. Inclusive, as in what it covers, which can be anything from changing a tire to paying for attorney fees to resolve speeding tickets, and inclusive in the family members it insures. Some plans follow the vehicle others follow the member whenever he is driving. It is important to clarify this so that the plan accomplishes your goals. Clubs have the ability to offer additional services that can make a difference. The availability of 24/7 service is important. Repair and go services like battery evaluation and replacement, tire changing, and out of gas service can be the difference between arriving on time and spending some quality time with a tow truck driver as you drive to the garage. Speaking of garages, what if the needed repair requires a procedure that is beyond a side of the road fix, where is the tow truck going to take you? Does the plan have a network of shops that it refers business to and if so how are these operations screened? Accountability becomes an issue if your vehicle is mishandled either during the tow or repair process. So you might want to check to see if the club you join has its own fleet or is just an administrator with a loosely organized network of sub-contractors. Many club memberships are sold based on the non-automotive features that the plan offers such as travel preparation or discounted offers for a variety of purchases. The cost of the roadside assistance then seems free as the members avail themselves of the perks that come with membership. However some members never take advantage of these additional benefits so the roadside plan does have some real cost after all.
Everyone likes the security of a roadside assistance program. Someone is there to help you regardless of the time of day or the weather conditions. It’s great to have someone to call when you are dressed to go out and the car won’t start or you come out to find a flat tire in the driveway. But what should you look for in an emergency road service program?
The first step is to determine what you hope to gain by buying a roadside assistance plan. I had a cousin who never had the coverage until his daughter went off to college about 75 miles away. His idea was that he could get to his vehicle when it was in trouble locally but an hour away presented a whole different set of problems. This brings up the question: Do I really need a roadside assistance plan?
Think about your recent history and if the need for towing or tire assistance has occurred. Consider what you are driving, the number miles on it and how reliable it is. Is the need for this coverage immediate and real?
If you recently bought a new car, replaced a starter on your existing car or have towing coverage within your auto insurance package you might not even need a stand-alone program. Many car manufacturers’ bumper to bumper warranties come with roadside assistance coverage. The purchase of a NAPA rebuilt starter, for example, comes with towing reimbursement if the starter fails (a flat tire is another story) during the warranty period. The point here is to inventory your access to emergency help to see if what your needs are already fulfilled.
Membership in an auto club for a year is going to cost anywhere from $30 to $100, depending on how inclusive the plan is. Inclusive, as in what it covers, which can be anything from changing a tire to paying for attorney fees to resolve speeding tickets, and inclusive in the family members it insures. Some plans follow the vehicle others follow the member whenever he is driving. It is important to clarify this so that the plan accomplishes your goals.
Clubs have the ability to offer additional services that can make a difference. The availability of 24/7 service is important. Repair and go services like battery evaluation and replacement, tire changing, and out of gas service can be the difference between arriving on time and spending some quality time with a tow truck driver as you drive to the garage.
Speaking of garages, what if the needed repair requires a procedure that is beyond a side of the road fix, where is the tow truck going to take you? Does the plan have a network of shops that it refers business to and if so how are these operations screened? Accountability becomes an issue if your vehicle is mishandled either during the tow or repair process. So you might want to check to see if the club you join has its own fleet or is just an administrator with a loosely organized network of sub-contractors.
Many club memberships are sold based on the non-automotive features that the plan offers such as travel preparation or discounted offers for a variety of purchases. The cost of the roadside assistance then seems free as the members avail themselves of the perks that come with membership. However some members never take advantage of these additional benefits so the roadside plan does have some real cost after all.
Everyone likes the security of a roadside assistance program. Someone is there to help you regardless of the time of day or the weather conditions. It’s great to have someone to call when you are dressed to go out and the car won’t start or you come out to find a flat tire in the driveway. But what should you look for in an emergency road service program?
The first step is to determine what you hope to gain by buying a roadside assistance plan. I had a cousin who never had the coverage until his daughter went off to college about 75 miles away. His idea was that he could get to his vehicle when it was in trouble locally but an hour away presented a whole different set of problems. This brings up the question: Do I really need a roadside assistance plan?
Think about your recent history and if the need for towing or tire assistance has occurred. Consider what you are driving, the number miles on it and how reliable it is. Is the need for this coverage immediate and real?
If you recently bought a new car, replaced a starter on your existing car or have towing coverage within your auto insurance package you might not even need a stand-alone program. Many car manufacturers’ bumper to bumper warranties come with roadside assistance coverage. The purchase of a NAPA rebuilt starter, for example, comes with towing reimbursement if the starter fails (a flat tire is another story) during the warranty period. The point here is to inventory your access to emergency help to see if what your needs are already fulfilled.
Membership in an auto club for a year is going to cost anywhere from $30 to $100, depending on how inclusive the plan is. Inclusive, as in what it covers, which can be anything from changing a tire to paying for attorney fees to resolve speeding tickets, and inclusive in the family members it insures. Some plans follow the vehicle others follow the member whenever he is driving. It is important to clarify this so that the plan accomplishes your goals.
Clubs have the ability to offer additional services that can make a difference. The availability of 24/7 service is important. Repair and go services like battery evaluation and replacement, tire changing, and out of gas service can be the difference between arriving on time and spending some quality time with a tow truck driver as you drive to the garage.
Speaking of garages, what if the needed repair requires a procedure that is beyond a side of the road fix, where is the tow truck going to take you? Does the plan have a network of shops that it refers business to and if so how are these operations screened? Accountability becomes an issue if your vehicle is mishandled either during the tow or repair process. So you might want to check to see if the club you join has its own fleet or is just an administrator with a loosely organized network of sub-contractors.
Many club memberships are sold based on the non-automotive features that the plan offers such as travel preparation or discounted offers for a variety of purchases. The cost of the roadside assistance then seems free as the members avail themselves of the perks that come with membership. However some members never take advantage of these additional benefits so the roadside plan does have some real cost after all.
Police: Prisoner’s call results in felony charge
LEAGUE CITY — A shoplifting suspect was accused of impersonating a police officer by using his one phone call to try to convince the wrecker driver to release his towed car for free, authorities said Monday.
Bond for Bradley Pryor, 21, of Texas City was set at $5,000 on a charge of impersonating a public servant, stemming from a Sunday afternoon incident at the League City Jail, police spokesman Sgt. David Hausam said. Pryor was charged with misdemeanor theft involving clothing and memory cards at the Target shopping center, 3100 Gulf Freeway, about 2:30 p.m., Hausam said. South Belt Wrecker towed Pryor’s car and police brought him to jail, Hausam said. “You have the right to a phone call,” Hausam said. Police accused Pryor of making the call on the jail phone line, which is recorded, Hausam said. “He identified himself as a League City police officer,” Hausam said. “‘I’m an officer and a mistake was made. You need to release the vehicle for free.’”The wrecker service driver said he couldn’t release the vehicle, because it already had been logged in, Hausam said. Police contacted the Galveston County District Attorney’s Office, and a prosecutor accepted the felony charge, Hausam said.
Bond for Bradley Pryor, 21, of Texas City was set at $5,000 on a charge of impersonating a public servant, stemming from a Sunday afternoon incident at the League City Jail, police spokesman Sgt. David Hausam said. Pryor was charged with misdemeanor theft involving clothing and memory cards at the Target shopping center, 3100 Gulf Freeway, about 2:30 p.m., Hausam said. South Belt Wrecker towed Pryor’s car and police brought him to jail, Hausam said. “You have the right to a phone call,” Hausam said. Police accused Pryor of making the call on the jail phone line, which is recorded, Hausam said. “He identified himself as a League City police officer,” Hausam said. “‘I’m an officer and a mistake was made. You need to release the vehicle for free.’”The wrecker service driver said he couldn’t release the vehicle, because it already had been logged in, Hausam said. Police contacted the Galveston County District Attorney’s Office, and a prosecutor accepted the felony charge, Hausam said.
San Bernardino councilman wants gun back
07/07/10 12:55 PM EDT SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. — San Bernardino City Councilman Jason Desjardins used the public comment period of a recent meeting to ask a thief to return property stolen when the window was smashed out of his parked van. He did not mention that the items stolen on June 19 included a loaded FN 5.7 mm handgun, a weapon that can fire bullets that pierce Kevlar vests worn by police. The Riverside Press-Enterprise reports that Desjardins says the gun was legal, he kept it for protection, and he doesn't have any of the Kevlar-piercing bullets. He says he had been moving it from his towing service to his home. The councilman wants the thief to turn the items over to police and promises he would waive his desire to prosecute.
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