Hamilton Gets Tough on Chasers - Collision Repair Magazine

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Hamilton Gets Tough on Chasers

Written by CRM News

Monday, 04 August 2008

HAMILTON, ON -- August 4, 2008 -- Hamilton, ON has introduced some of the toughest measures to date to stop accident scene solicitation, under the theory that it is inappropriate ask people to agree to services at that point in time when they are under stress.

Hamilton has seen numerous fights between commission salespersons or accident scene “chasers,” one including use of knives.The new bylaw was introduced at the request of the Hamilton Police Service and the Hamilton District Autobody Repair Association (HARA) and has an accompanying brochure that is available to warn consumers about the problems with chasing.

The new by-law provides for:

-No solicitation or offer of business services within 200 metres of an apparent vehicle accident
-No solicitation within 200 metres of anyone entering or leaving a Collision Reporting Centre
-No solicitation or hiring of a tow truck or making or conveying an offer of towing services within 200 metres of an accident or Collision Reporting Centre
-That police or other officers have the right to issue either tickets or summons
-Conviction carries fines up to $5,000 on first offense and $100,000 on third offence
-Upon discovery of a tow truck in contravention of the bylaw, police are authorized to cause the tow truck to be moved or impounded and all costs and charges for removal, care and storage of the tow truck, if any, shall be in the form of a lien against the truck.

Thee City of Hamilton bylaw may serve as a model for other municipalities with similar problems. Copies of the by-law and City background report are available by calling 866-309-4272 or via email at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

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