Wheel Cover/hubcaps problems of the 1998 Chevrolet Malibu

Due to a flat tire a tow truck had to be called to try to get the wheel covers off. The lug nuts can not be loosened without first getting the wheel covers off. The tow truck was unsuccessfull in getting the wheel covers off and vehicle had to be brought to the dealership to get the wheel cover and tire off. The service department admitted that there is a defect in the plastic components of the wheelcover that fasten to the lug nuts. If this had happened on the highway it could have resulted in a very serious situation. Myself, 3 male CO-workers and the tow truck driver could not get this wheel cover off to change the flat. Something needs to be done to rectify this situation. The dealer did give me a new wheel cover , but that doesn't solve future problems.