What Does Tow At Owner Expense Means?

So, your car has been towed by the authority and now you are wondering what to do and what does it mean as a car owner.

The term “Tow At Owner Expense” means that the cost of towing a vehicle is the responsibility of car’s owner. This situation often arises due to illegal parking, breakdown in the middle of highway or an accident where the car’s owner is expected to arrange and pay the towing service.

In such cases, the owner typically contacts a towing company or service provider, requests a tow, and bears the cost associated with it. The expenses incurred may include the actual towing service, any additional fees for distance or special circumstances, and potential storage fees if the vehicle is taken to a designated facility.

It is important for vehicle owners to review their insurance policies or any applicable roadside assistance coverage to determine if there are provisions for towing services that may partially or fully cover the costs.

Also Read: 11 Ways To Save Money On Car Expenses

How Does Private Property Towing Works?

Private Property Towing refers to the parking of someone vehicle in a private owned property or managed property. In such cases, the car’s owner is entering into someone’s area without their permission. Some of the most common private property are parking lots, driveways or private roads.

Additionally, it is worth noting that the rule and regulation for private property may vary depending on the local rules and jurisdiction. So, it is highly recommended to get familiarize with local rules and regulations while moving to different place.

Here is the competitive overview on how private property towing works.

1. Authorization

The owner or manager of the private property authorizes a towing company to enforce parking rules on their premises. This authorization is typically granted through a contract or agreement between the property owner and the towing company.

2. Signage

Clear and conspicuous signs are usually posted throughout the property to inform vehicle owners of the parking rules and regulations. The signs specify things like parking restrictions, time limits, and potential consequences for non-compliance, including towing.

3. Violation or Unauthorized Parking

When a vehicle is parked in violation of the property’s rules (e.g., parking in a designated handicapped spot without proper permits) or without permission (e.g., parking in a customer-only area without being a customer), it may be subject to towing.

4. Towing Process

Once a violation is identified, the property owner or a representative contacts the towing company that has been authorized to tow vehicles from the property. The towing company dispatches a tow truck to the location to remove the vehicle.

5. Impoundment

The tow truck operator removes the vehicle from the private property and transports it to a designated impound lot or storage facility. The vehicle is securely stored until the owner takes the necessary steps to reclaim it.

6. Retrieval of the Vehicle

To retrieve a towed vehicle, the owner typically needs to visit the impound lot or storage facility, provide proof of ownership (vehicle registration), and pay the required fees, including towing charges, storage fees, and any applicable fines or penalties.

Also Read: Can I Buy A Car With Part-Time Job?

If a tow truck is about to tow My car, Can I get in the car and refuse to have it towed?

If a tow truck is in the process of towing your car, it is generally not advisable to attempt to get into the car and refuse to have it towed. Doing so may lead to further complications and potentially legal consequences. When a tow truck has been called and is in the process of towing a vehicle, it is typically because there is a legitimate reason for the tow, such as a parking violation or other legal grounds.

What To Do If My Car Is Being Towed By Towing Truck?

1. Communicate with the towing truck operator

Politely and calmly communicate with the tow truck operator to understand why your vehicle is being towed. Ask for proper documentation and an explanation of the situation. Keep in mind that the tow truck operator is likely acting on instructions from the property owner or authorities.

2. Collect Evidence

If you believe there is an error or dispute regarding the towing, gather any evidence or documentation that supports your claim. This may include photographs of parking signs, receipts showing payment for parking, or any other relevant information.

3. Contact the property owner or authorities

If you believe the towing is unjustified, contact the property owner or authorities responsible for the towing, depending on the situation. Explain your concerns and provide any evidence you have to support your case.

Seek legal advice if necessary: If the dispute cannot be resolved through communication or if you believe your rights have been violated, consider seeking legal advice from a qualified attorney who can guide you through the process and help protect your rights.

Can I call a tow truck on someone?

No, you cannot call a tow truck on someone until and unless the vehicle is in violation of local rules and regulation. If you are towing someone’s car without legal notice then it is officially considered illegal and there can be serious consequences.

Here are the two most common reason where you can request a tow truck for someone’s car.

1. Private Property Violations

Private Property Towing refers to the parking of someone’s vehicle in a private owned property or managed property, such as a parking lot or driveway, and someone parks in violation of the property’s rules or without permission, you may be able to call a tow truck to remove the vehicle.

2. Illegally Parked Vehicles

If you see a vehicle parked in an illegal spot or manner i.e, blocking a fire hydrant, violation local parking laws, or obstructing traffic, you can inform the local police or parking enforcement. They will come and check the whole scenario and if required, the vehicle will be towed.

Final Words

Getting your car towed is no joke as this can put you in serious consequences and may increase your expense by more $200 – $500. In order to secure your self from any such losses, you must comply with local laws and regulation.

However, if someone’s car is illegally parker in your driveway, private road or any other place, you have the right to call the towing service. But do double check if the car is illegally parked or not as per your local rules.