Understanding Kansas Towing Laws: What Every Driver Should Know
Introduction
Towing laws vary from state to state, and Kansas is no exception. Whether you're a driver who may need roadside assistance, a vehicle owner facing impoundment, or a towing company operator, understanding the legal aspects of towing in Kansas is essential. Kansas has specific regulations governing when and how vehicles can be towed, as well as the rights and responsibilities of both drivers and towing companies. This guide will cover key towing laws in Kansas, including private property towing, impoundment, fees, and consumer rights.
When Can Your Car Be Towed in Kansas?
Your vehicle can be towed in Kansas under various circumstances, including:
- Illegal Parking – If your car is parked illegally in a designated no-parking zone, fire lane, or handicapped spot without a permit, it can be towed immediately.
- Abandoned Vehicles – Kansas law allows authorities to tow vehicles left unattended on public property for over 48 hours.
- Private Property Towing – Property owners have the right to remove unauthorized vehicles from their premises, provided the necessary signage is posted.
- Vehicle Repossession – If you fail to make car loan payments, a lender may repossess your vehicle and have it towed.
- Traffic Violations or Arrests – If you are arrested or caught driving without a valid license or insurance, law enforcement may impound your vehicle.
Private Property Towing Laws
Kansas law allows property owners to have unauthorized vehicles towed from their premises. However, there are strict regulations in place to protect consumers from unfair towing practices. These include:
- Posted Signage – The property owner must place clear and visible signage warning that unauthorized vehicles will be towed.
- Notification Requirements – The towing company must notify law enforcement within two hours of towing a vehicle from private property.
- Storage Location – The vehicle must be taken to a licensed storage facility where the owner can retrieve it.
Impoundment and Vehicle Retrieval
If your car has been impounded in Kansas, you will need to follow specific steps to retrieve it:
- Contact the Towing Company – Find out where your vehicle is being stored and what documents are required to retrieve it.
- Pay the Required Fees – Towing and storage fees must be paid before your car is released.
- Provide Identification and Proof of Ownership – A valid ID, proof of registration, and insurance are typically required.
- Understand Your Rights – If you believe your car was wrongfully towed, you have the right to dispute the tow and seek reimbursement.
Towing Fees and Cost Regulations
Towing fees in Kansas vary depending on the type of tow and distance traveled. Common costs associated with towing include:
- Hook-up Fees – The initial fee for towing a vehicle, typically ranging from $75 to $150.
- Mileage Fees – Additional charges per mile, often between $3 to $7.
- Storage Fees – Daily fees for keeping your car at the impound lot, which can range from $20 to $50 per day.
- After-Hours Fees – Additional charges may apply if you retrieve your vehicle outside of normal business hours.
To avoid overcharging, Kansas requires towing companies to provide an itemized bill upon request and follow state-set fee limits.
Your Rights as a Vehicle Owner
Kansas law protects vehicle owners from predatory towing practices. Some key rights include:
- Right to Notification – Law enforcement must be notified within two hours of a private property tow.
- Right to Retrieve Personal Items – Vehicle owners are allowed to collect personal belongings from their car, even if they cannot afford to pay for its release.
- Right to Challenge a Tow – If you believe your vehicle was unfairly towed, you can file a complaint with the Kansas Attorney General’s office or take legal action in small claims court.
Preventing Your Car from Being Towed
To avoid the stress and expense of an unexpected tow, follow these preventive measures:
- Always park legally – Avoid restricted zones, fire lanes, and private property without permission.
- Check for towing signs – Before leaving your car, look for posted signs indicating that unauthorized vehicles will be towed.
- Stay updated on local laws – Some cities in Kansas have stricter parking and towing regulations than others.
- Keep your vehicle registered and insured – Avoid impoundment due to expired tags or lack of insurance.
Conclusion
Understanding Kansas towing laws can help you protect your rights and avoid unnecessary towing fees. Whether your vehicle is towed from private property, impounded by law enforcement, or involved in a repossession, knowing the rules can make the process easier to navigate. If you ever face an issue with towing in Kansas, be sure to check with local authorities or legal professionals to ensure your rights are upheld.
By staying informed and proactive, you can minimize the risk of unexpected towing and ensure that your vehicle remains safe and accessible.
