03:55 PM CST on Wednesday, January 5, 2005

From 11 News Staff Reports

HOUSTON, Texas -- State Senator John Whitmire stated that due to the failure of city officials to consider all the negative consequences of the new Safe Clear program, they should immediately declare a moratorium on the towing of vehicles that are not impeding traffic and can safely be repaired at the shoulder of the freeway within a reasonable time frame.

He states that the plan does not adequately consider the well-being of passengers, particularly children, stranded after their car has been towed.

"It is unacceptable to take entire families to a fire or police station," said Whitmire.

Families could be safe at home or work if the City of Houston had a fair program similar to Bellaire or Harris County which allow motorists more time to secure reasonable aid. The public should not be expected to get into a tow truck driven by an unknown person. Whitmire said that, as a matter of public safety, criminal background checks should be performed on tow truck drivers. "To lose your car to an expensive storage lot should not be allowed," said Whitmire.

Whitmire stated the intended purpose is fine. No one has a right to block the flow of traffic, but common sense dictates that a safe repair on the shoulder should be allowed.