Your Rights as a Vehicle Owner: When Can Your Car Be Towed?
Owning a vehicle comes with many responsibilities, but it also comes with rights that protect you from wrongful towing. Whether you're parked on public streets, private property, or in violation of local regulations, understanding when your car can be towed—and what steps you can take to retrieve it—is crucial. This guide will help you understand your rights as a vehicle owner and when towing is legally justified.
When Can Your Car Be Towed?
Towing laws vary by state and city, but there are general situations where your vehicle may be legally towed:
1. Parking Violations
If you park in a restricted or illegal spot, your vehicle may be subject to towing. Common violations include:
- Parking in a no-parking zone
- Blocking driveways or fire hydrants
- Parking in handicapped spaces without proper authorization
- Exceeding the allowed parking duration in a timed zone
Local ordinances determine the enforcement of these rules, so it’s always wise to check signage before leaving your vehicle.
2. Private Property Towing
If you park on private property without permission, the property owner has the right to tow your vehicle. However, in most states:
- There must be clear signage stating that unauthorized vehicles will be towed
- The tow company must notify law enforcement
- There are limits on how far the car can be towed
This is commonly known as “non-consensual towing.” If you believe your car was towed unfairly, you can challenge it by reviewing the property’s towing policies and state laws.
3. Abandoned or Unregistered Vehicles
Local authorities may tow vehicles deemed abandoned. This typically happens when:
- A car is left parked in the same spot for an extended period (e.g., 48-72 hours, depending on local laws)
- The vehicle has expired registration or tags
- The vehicle appears inoperable
If your car was towed for being “abandoned,” you can check with the local police department or towing company to verify where it was taken.
4. Impoundment by Law Enforcement
Law enforcement officers have the authority to tow vehicles under certain circumstances, such as:
- The driver is arrested, and the car cannot be legally parked
- The vehicle is involved in a crime investigation
- The car is a hazard to traffic or public safety
- Unpaid parking tickets that result in a tow order
Impounded vehicles often require payment of towing and storage fees before they can be released.
5. Roadside Towing for Safety Reasons
If your car breaks down on a highway or major roadway, authorities may have it towed to keep traffic flowing safely. In these cases, you may be given a window of time to move your vehicle before it is removed.
What to Do If Your Car Is Towed?
If your car has been towed, here are steps to take to recover it:
1. Confirm the Tow Location
Check for any posted towing signs nearby. You can also contact local law enforcement, as most tow companies are required to report the vehicle’s location.
2. Know Your Rights and Fees
Before paying any fees, request an itemized bill from the towing company. You are entitled to:
- A breakdown of towing and storage costs
- Information on why the vehicle was towed
- Proof that the tow was lawful
If any fees seem excessive or unfair, you can dispute them with local authorities or a consumer protection agency.
3. Retrieve Your Vehicle Quickly
Storage fees increase daily, so it’s important to recover your vehicle as soon as possible. Bring valid identification, proof of ownership (vehicle registration or title), and payment for any towing and storage costs.
4. Dispute an Illegal or Unjustified Tow
If you believe your vehicle was towed unlawfully:
- Gather evidence, including photos of where your car was parked
- Request a copy of the tow authorization
- File a complaint with the local Department of Consumer Affairs, police department, or a small claims court
Many cities have towing appeal processes that allow you to dispute wrongful tows.
How to Prevent Your Car from Being Towed?
To avoid the frustration and costs of towing, follow these tips:
- Read Parking Signs Carefully – Always check for parking restrictions before leaving your vehicle.
- Keep Registration and Insurance Updated – Expired documents can lead to impoundment.
- Avoid Unauthorized Parking on Private Property – If you’re unsure, ask for permission.
- Move Your Vehicle When Required – In areas with time limits, be mindful of posted regulations.
- Pay Outstanding Tickets – Accumulated unpaid parking tickets can result in a tow order.
Conclusion
Knowing your rights as a vehicle owner can save you time, money, and frustration when dealing with towing situations. By understanding when towing is justified, how to recover your vehicle, and ways to prevent it from happening, you can protect yourself from unnecessary inconvenience. If you ever feel your car was towed unfairly, take action by reviewing local laws and disputing wrongful towing practices. Awareness is your best defense against towing-related issues!
