If you have ever had the misfortune of having your car towed, you know it is not only frustrating but also stressful. However, it is essential to remain calm and act quickly to retrieve your vehicle. In this article, we will discuss the steps you can take if your car gets towed.
Step 1: Find out where your car has been towed
The first thing you need to do is find out where your car has been towed. Call the local police department or the towing company that you believe may have towed your car to find out its location. You will need to provide the make, model, and license plate number of your car to the towing company.
Step 2: Determine why your car was towed
Once you have found out where your car has been towed, you need to determine why it was towed in the first place. The most common reasons for towing include parking violations, expired registration, and abandoned vehicles. If your car was towed due to a parking violation, you will need to pay any outstanding parking tickets and fines before you can retrieve your car.
Step 3: Retrieve your car
Once you have determined the reason for the towing and paid any necessary fines, you can retrieve your car. You will need to bring proof of ownership of the vehicle, such as a valid driver’s license and registration, and pay the towing and storage fees. Make sure to bring cash or a credit card as many towing companies do not accept checks.
Step 4: Check for damages
Before you leave the towing lot, check your vehicle for any damages. If you notice any damage, take pictures and report it to the towing company immediately. It is important to document any damage as soon as possible to avoid any disputes later on.
Step 5: Contest the tow
If you believe your car was towed unfairly, you have the right to contest the tow. Contact the local police department or the towing company and provide any evidence you have to support your claim. If the towing was done improperly, you may be able to get your towing and storage fees refunded.
Conclusion
Getting your car towed can be a frustrating and stressful experience, but it is important to remain calm and take action as soon as possible. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can retrieve your car quickly and efficiently. Remember to check for damages and contest the tow if necessary.
FAQs
How much does it cost to retrieve a towed car?
The cost of retrieving a towed car varies depending on the towing company and the reason for the tow. Typically, you can expect to pay a towing fee of $100-$200, plus a storage fee of $20-$50 per day.
Can towing companies tow my car if I am in it?
No, towing companies are not allowed to tow a car if the driver is in it. However, if the driver refuses to exit the car, the towing company can contact the police to have the car removed.
Can I retrieve my car after hours?
Many towing companies have after-hours services, but you may need to pay an additional fee for this service. Check with the towing company to see if they offer after-hours retrieval.
How long can a towing company keep my car?
Towing companies are required to hold a vehicle for a minimum of 24 hours before selling or disposing of it. After 24 hours, the towing company can charge a storage fee for each additional day the car is held.
Can I sue a towing company for damages?
Yes, you can sue a towing company for damages if they caused damage to your car during the towing process. Make sure to document any damages and contact the towing company as soon as possible to report the issue.