Q: How can I retrieve my towed vehicle without upfront payment if I didn't consent to the tow?
I want to retrieve my vehicle from a tow yard, but they are demanding upfront payment, which I feel is akin to holding it for ransom as I did not consent to the tow. I have not been able to arrange billing options despite being told payment is necessary for release. What alternatives or steps can I take to resolve this situation?
A:
If they legally towed the vehicle (such as by order from law enforcement or by order of a private property owner/business) even though you did not consent, they have a right to be paid by the owner of the vehicle before releasing it. This ensures they get paid for doing their job legally. They can keep it and charge daily storage fees until the debt is paid in full. If an owner does not pay with a set time the tow company may sell the car at auction to receiver expenses.
If they did not tow it legally (just because you didn’t consent does not make it illegal) then you need to contact an attorney to assist you.
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