Joseph Haines JR

Hall of Fame Inductee #371
Columbus, New Jersey

Joseph Haines Jr. stands as a remarkable figure in the towing and recovery industry, embodying a legacy that dates back to 1920 when his grandfather and uncle founded Haines Bros in Bordentown, NJ. Growing up surrounded by the hum of tow trucks and the intricacies of roadside assistance, Joseph developed an innate understanding of the industry from an early age. His formative years spent on the back of a tow truck instilled in him not just a passion for the field, but also a profound commitment to service that extends far beyond the simple act of towing vehicles.

Following in the footsteps of his father, Joseph became an innovator in the realms of towing, recovery, and incident management. He recognizes that the work his team undertakes encompasses much more than just “towing cars and trucks.” With a keen awareness that traffic incidents can have ripple effects that extend into the community, he has dedicated his career to enhancing safety and efficiency in every operational facet. Joseph believes that each incident is an opportunity to improve not only the immediate situation but also the overall infrastructure and safety protocols that affect all road users.

Safety has always been one of Joseph’s primary concerns. He tirelessly advocates for both client and employee safety, ensuring that the measures taken during recovery operations are not only effective but also designed to mitigate risks. His commitment to safety is evident in his generous contributions to the community—regularly donating equipment and providing critical training resources for local fire departments and DOT personnel. By equipping first responders with the necessary tools and knowledge, he fosters a safer environment for everyone on the road.

As a community leader, Joseph has played an instrumental role in shaping the standards and practices of the towing industry. He was a founding member of the Garden State Towing Association in 1986, an organization that has since become a pivotal force in advocating for the rights and needs of towing professionals throughout New Jersey. His commitment to enhancing industry standards is further exemplified by his role as a founding member of the New Jersey SAFR Incident Management Task Force, along with the Burlington County and Mercer/Buck Counties Incident Management Task Forces. These initiatives aim to streamline incident response and improve coordination among various agencies during emergencies.

Joseph’s pioneering spirit extends to his involvement with the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) Electric Vehicle Task Force, where he is actively engaged in discussions about the future of transportation. His expertise and forward-thinking approach ensure that the towing industry remains at the forefront of technological advancements, particularly as the shift toward electric vehicles becomes increasingly relevant.

His active participation in the Towing and Recovery Association of America (TRAA) since its formation in 1975 marks another significant milestone in his illustrious career. Joseph was the first towing operator in New Jersey to become a Traffic Incident Management (TIM) Trainer, a testament to his deep commitment to professional development and community safety. This designation not only amplifies his voice within the industry but also demonstrates his dedication to educating others about best practices in incident management.

With a career that spans decades, Joseph Haines Jr. has positioned himself as a leader, innovator, and advocate in the towing and recovery industry. His commitment to safety, community service, and professional excellence continues to inspire those around him. As he looks to the future, Joseph remains steadfast in his mission to elevate the standards of towing and incident management, ensuring that both his clients and community benefit from his efforts for generations to come.