Most states do have laws in place that allow for tow companies to tow vehicles due to expired tags or delinquent registration fees. This usually depends on whether the vehicle is parked on private or public property. Sometimes the tow company may be contracted by a towing authority or agency to remove vehicles with expired tags or delinquent registration fees. In this case, the tow company may be obligated to comply with the terms of their contract.
In some cases, an officer from the local police or sheriff’s department may arrive on the scene to discuss the situation with the tow truck driver and the vehicle’s owner. If the vehicle’s owner can show evidence of valid registration, then the officer may be able to intervene and prevent the vehicle from being towed. If not, then the tow truck driver will be allowed to tow the vehicle.
It is also important to know that in most cases, the tow company is not required to inform the vehicle’s owner before towing their car. In other words, there may not be any warning signs posted or written notices informing the driver that their vehicle is going to be towed. This means that it is even more important to be aware of your local laws and make sure that your vehicle stays in compliance with all registration laws.
When avehicle is towed due to expired tags or delinquent registration fees, the vehicle is usually taken to a lot designated by the tow company or municipal agency. The vehicle owner is then responsible for the towing and storage fees as well as any other fees related to the tow and removal of their vehicle.
In most cases, the vehicle owner can retrieve their vehicle as soon as they pay the towing and storage fees. However, it is important to remember that the tow company will not necessarily release the vehicle until all payment is received. It is also important to note that the tow company reserves the right to place a lien on the vehicle until the payment is received.
Types of Lights
Most states require vehicles to be equipped with certain lights in order to be roadworthy. This includes headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and license plate lights. Headlights must be on any time a vehicle is being driven on public roads after dark, and must be strong enough to illuminate the road ahead of the vehicle. Brake lights must be illuminated any time the brakes are in use, including slowing down or stopping. Turn signals must be on any time the driver is turning or changing lanes while the vehicle is in motion, and license plate lights must be on at all times.
Having working lights is important for both the safety of the driver, as well as other drivers on the road. Without properly functioning lights, the driver’s visibility may become compromised in the dark, and other drivers will have a harder time predicting their next move and avoiding collisions. Furthermore, the driver is subject to fines, depending on the state in which they are driving, for having any type of lighting malfunction.
In addition to safety and fines, some states also require all lights, including brake lights and turn signals, in order to pass inspections. Without working lights, the vehicle may not pass inspection and therefore, will not be registered, which results in the driver being subject to towing of their vehicle, if they are found on public roads with expired tags.
Driving Records
Driving records are a part of an individual’s license or identification record and provide the state with a history of each driver’s driving activity. Driving records can be used to track any incidents or violations a person may have committed, such as DUIs, driving without a license, speeding, and expired tags.
In most states, drivers must also keep their driving records current, as expired tags violations can result in the towing of a vehicle if the driver is found in violation of the state’s law. Driving records are updated by the state, and most often require that individuals update their driving record information at regular intervals.
Driving records will also reflect any suspensions or revocations of licenses based on a driver’s behavior, and as a result, can prevent a person from being able to legally drive a vehicle. This means it is important to maintain a clean driving record, as any violations could lead to suspensions, revocations, and or additional fines.
DMV Office
When a vehicle is towed due to expired tags, the tow company is required to report this to the DMV Office or Department of Motor Vehicles. This is important to be aware of because the state maintains records of violations, and the DMV will update the driver’s records to reflect the violation. This will show on the driver’s driving records, and any points associated with the violation will also be reflected.
The DMV can also impose a fee for failing to register a vehicle, as well as any other fees associated with the violation. In some cases, the DMV may be able to provide a payment plan option to make things easier on the driver, however, failure to comply with the payment plan could result in the suspension of the driver’s license.
Additionally, the DMV may work with the tow company to arrange for payment of towing and storage fees associated with the violation. This will help ensure the driver is able to retrieve their vehicle quickly and get back on the road.
Legal Protection
Everyone has a right to know when their vehicle may be towed and to understand what the laws are regarding the violation. This means it is important to be aware of local laws, and how they apply to the towing industry. If a vehicle is towed and the driver believes their legal rights have been violated, they may be able to seek legal representation to assist in their case.
In some cases, tow companies will overcharge or may tow a vehicle under circumstances that are not legal, such as towing from private property without written authorization. The driver may be able to file a civil suit against the tow company as a means of seeking restitution.
Additionally, many states require that tow companies include certain information on signs indicating that a vehicle may be towed for being in violation of the law. This includes the address of the tow company, the fees associated with the tow, and other important information that the driver should be aware of.
Insurance Protection
Most states require that all vehicles are insured. This includes liability insurance that will cover any property damage or bodily injury that may result from an accident. Liability insurance will also cover any costs associated with the tow or removal of the vehicle in the event that the vehicle has expired tags or delinquent registration fees.
However, it is also important to be aware that some insurance companies may not cover towing or removal fees. This means it is important to read through your insurance policy and contact the insurance company with any questions or concerns. In some cases, drivers may need to purchase additional insurance to cover the cost of towing or to pay any additional fines.
Conclusion
In the end, it is important to be aware of any laws regarding the towing of vehicles in your state or municipality. Failure to comply with these laws can lead to a vehicle being towed, which can result in costly fees as well as potential damage to the vehicle. It is also important to double check your insurance policy to make sure you are covered in the event that your vehicle is towed.
