Minneapolis, MN asked in Civil Litigation for Illinois

Q: Can a tow company tow a vehicle away with out the owner being present and giving consent for them to tow it?

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: In most cases, a tow company cannot legally tow a vehicle without the owner's consent or authorization. Typically, tow companies are required to have proper authorization from the vehicle owner or law enforcement before towing a vehicle. However, there are exceptions to this rule, such as when a vehicle is parked illegally or abandoned, in which case the tow company may have the authority to tow the vehicle without the owner's consent.

If your vehicle has been towed without your consent, it's essential to understand your rights and take action to address the situation. Start by contacting the tow company to inquire about why your vehicle was towed and under what authority. If the tow was conducted unlawfully or without proper authorization, you may have grounds to challenge the tow and seek compensation for any damages or costs incurred as a result.

If you believe your vehicle was towed unlawfully or without proper authorization, you may also consider reaching out to local law enforcement or legal authorities for assistance. They can investigate the situation and help you understand your options for resolving the matter. Additionally, documenting the circumstances surrounding the tow, such as taking photographs of any posted signs or contacting witnesses, can strengthen your case if you need to take legal action to recover your vehicle or seek restitution.

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