Introduction
Have you ever heard of a towing company keeping your car? Most people don’t even know that it’s possible for a towing company to keep your car. However, the truth is that depending on the circumstances and the jurisdiction, a towing company can and will legally keep your car. In this article, we’ll explore what you should know about this unusual predicament and how you can protect yourself.
What Are The Legalities?
As it stands, a towing company can legally retain a car in certain circumstances. In order for a tow company to keep a vehicle, the car must either be left unattended on private property for longer than 72 hours, or the owner must fail to pay for services rendered. The towing company must file a lien on the vehicle and provide notice to the owner that the car is being held, as is required by law. In order for the towing company to keep the car, they must obtain a court order authorizing them to do so.
What Are Your Rights?
Under the law, you have certain rights when it comes to facing the possibility of a towing company keeping your car. First, you should be aware that you have the right to contest any lien that the company has imposed on your vehicle. You can also challenge any fees that the company is charging for towing and storage. Finally, you also have the right to an administrative hearing, where you can present your case to the court.
Preventative Measures
The best way to avoid having your car taken away by a towing company is to be aware of your surroundings and not leave your car unattended for an extended period of time. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to have your car towed, make sure to negotiate with the tow company before services are rendered and make sure you have a payment plan in place. If you plan on using a towing service, be sure to shop around and get multiple quotes before signing a contract.
What To Do If Your Car Is Taken Away
If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of having your car taken away by a towing company, the first thing you should do is contact an attorney. An attorney can help protect your rights and explain the process of having your car returned. The legal process can be confusing and an experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and the legal process surrounding towing liens.
Dealing With The Insurance Company
If your car has been taken away by a towing company, you may wish to contact your insurance company. If your car is covered by comprehensive coverage, your insurance may cover the costs of the towing and storage. Your insurance company may also be able to assist you in getting your car back by negotiating a payment plan with the towing company.
Conclusion
Despite the fact that a towing company can legally keep your car, the best thing you can do is to be aware of your surroundings and take preventative measures to avoid having your car taken away in the first place. If, however, you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of having your car taken away, contact an attorney immediately and contact your insurance company if your car is covered by comprehensive coverage. Knowing what to do in the event of having your car taken away can help to protect your rights and get your car back legally and quickly.
Exploring Alternatives
When faced with the prospect of a towing company keeping your car, there may be alternatives to consider. Depending on the situation, a mediator may be able to help get your car back without the need for a court hearing. Additionally, you may also be able to negotiate with the towing company to reduce or waive fees. In some cases, it may also be possible to find another towing company to take possession of the car and help you avoid additional fees and a long legal process.
Fighting For Your Rights
In some situations, it may be necessary to fight for your right to have your car returned. If the tow company is charging excessive or unreasonable fees, or if the company refuses to return the car to you, you may need to seek legal counsel and consider taking action in court. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, challenge excessive fees and ultimately get your car back.
What To Look For In Attorney?
When seeking legal counsel in this situation, it is important to make sure that you find an attorney who is experienced in handling towing disputes. Look for an attorney that is familiar with your state’s laws and ordinances regarding towing and lien rights, and who is knowledgeable about the legal process. Additionally, a lawyer who is familiar with local towing companies can be beneficial in navigating the legal process so that you can get your car back as quickly as possible.
Preparing For The Court Hearing
If you do need to go to court, it is important to properly prepare for your hearing. Make sure you understand the laws and procedures that are applicable to your case, and that you have all of the necessary paperwork and evidence. Additionally, make sure to carefully review any agreements that you have signed with the tow company, as this can have a direct impact on the outcome of your case.
Conclusion
Having your car taken away by a towing company can be a stressful and confusing situation. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to protect yourself and ensure that your rights are upheld. Be aware of your surroundings and take preventative measures to avoid having your car taken away in the first place. If your car is taken, contact an experienced attorney and insurance company to help you navigate the legal process and potentially get your car back. Additionally, you may also be able to negotiate with the towing company and explore alternatives to the legal process. It is important to understand your rights and prepare in advance so that you can fight for your right to have your car returned.