Q: What exactly does signing a release of interest form do and can I avoid paying the towing fee by signing one?
I totaled my car and when the tow truck came to get it, the driver told me that he would tow it free of charge in exchange for the vehicle. I agreed to that, but now I have a bill in the mail along with a release of interest form from the towing company. Does signing the release of interest form mean I don’t have to pay the bill or did the driver lie to me? Also, if I sign the release of interest form do I have to include the title with it and if so, how do I replace a lost title?
A:
An Idaho attorney could advise best, but your post remains open for two weeks. It could be difficult for an attorney, even an Idaho attorney, to advise on the operation of the form you describe, sight unseen. But as a GENERAL matter nationwide, a release of interest form is used to convey ownership of a vehicle (sometimes in conjunction with other forms). No one here can tell you whether or not you need to pay the bill - that's between you and the salvor. If the insurance carrier declared the car a total loss and gave you two figures - one where you keep the vehicle, the other where you surrender the vehicle and pocket the salvage value (which I think is what the salvor may be negotiating with you as payment for the tow? I can't be certain... that's only a guess). Only an Idaho attorney attorney is qualified to advise you in a meaningful manner - you could try to arrange a consult with a local attorney to review your paperwork. Good luck
Tim Akpinar
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