When is towing illegal and how do you know if you have a valid complaint?
It’s more than frustrating when you return to where you parked and your car is gone — it can make you angry, especially if you believe you followed parking rules closely.
Predatory, illegal towing is a common problem in many states and cities, and local governments have been passing laws to limit the practice and regulate the towing industry, especially when it comes to non-consent tows.
Here is what you need to know if you think you’re on the right side of the law and believe you have a reason to be upset over illegal towing:
Your first step is research. Find the laws in the city or state where you were towed. In Utah, the Department of Transportation establishes non-consent tow laws and they are all posted online.
Utah, like many states, sets a limit on what tow companies can charge, what license and certifications are required for them to operate legally, and what safety regulations they must abide by. If you know the law, you’ll be able to quickly determine if illegal towing did, in fact, occur.
The state of Utah’s Department of Transportation sets a fee schedule tow companies are required to follow. For example, companies can charge a maximum of $147 per hour for a light-duty vehicle tow. Administrative fees cannot exceed $31 and outdoor storage maxes out at $40 per day, $45 for indoor storage.
In addition, tow companies are required to put certain details on the receipt, including a list of services provided. If you’ve been overcharged, you have a valid complaint.
Utah’s Department of Transportation also requires three certifications for a legal tow operation:
After you’ve been towed without your consent, it’s within your right to ask the tow company for proof of these three certifications. If the driver or company representative is unable to provide evidence of compliance, they’ve carried out illegal towing and you can file a complaint.
Tow companies must comply with all state and federal safety regulations, such as carrying the appropriate amount of liability insurance. The truck must be outfitted with the right equipment and must undergo an annual safety inspection. If the company has neglected any of this, this is grounds for an illegal towing complaint on the part of the towed vehicle’s owner.
Make sure you know the contact information for the appropriate office when you have evidence of illegal towing. In Utah, you can fill out a complaint form online or you can call the Utah Department of Transportation Motor Carrier Division at (801) 965-5892.
Stauffer’s Towing abhors illegal towing and always stays up to date with all federal and state regulations, ensuring customers have the best service in Utah.
