To the editor:

We, the people, understand the importance of making a profit when owning a towing business. However, when the expense of having an auto towed affects the safety of oneself and others, it’s time we speak out on the issue.

Fact is, an auto that was towed less than one city block cost me $130. It was this unreasonable rate that led me to tow my disabled minivan back from Olathe using a chain and a truck. My knowledge of this unreasonable towing rate led me to risk my safety, my wife’s safety and the safety of others. These outrageous rates are the reason that led to a nearly fatal auto accident. Following several of my wife’s injuries as a result of losing control and rolling her van Monday night on Kansas Highway 10, we can retrieve her totaled van at the cost of $250 plus an additional $20 a day.

As legitimate tow service business owners, you must ask yourself: Are these rates reasonable? Are they necessary to stay in business? Are today’s tow rates worth taking the chance that one will place his/her loved one’s life and other motorists’ lives in harm’s way? Following my personal experience I would definitely say not. However, with today’s towing costs, some low-income families, such as mine, will be forced into making the same unsafe choice.

Ernest Hatch,

Lawrence