Imagine stepping outside after a long day, only to find the space where your car was parked just hours ago. That sinking feeling sparks one urgent question: Can someone tow my car without permission? For many drivers, towing laws feel confusing, stressful, and sometimes unfair. Understanding your rights, the law, and how towing works can save you time, money, and frustration. In this detailed guide, NERD Towing outlines the legal protections, common scenarios, and what to do if your vehicle is towed.
Can Someone Tow My Car Without Permission Under the Law?
The short answer is yes, but only under specific legal conditions. The law does not allow random people to tow your vehicle simply because they want to. In most states, towing without permission is tightly regulated.
Typically, a car can be towed without the owner’s consent if it is:
- Illegally parked
- Blocking traffic or a driveway
- Creating a safety hazard
- Parked on private property with proper notice
The question of whether someone towed my car without permission depends on where the vehicle is located and whether the towing follows state and local regulations. NERD Towing always follows applicable laws to ensure authorisation is legal and properly documented.
Towing on Public Property and Roadways
When your car is parked on public property, such as a city road or public lot, different rules apply. Law enforcement usually plays a key role in these situations.
Vehicles may be towed from public roads if they are:
- Parked in no-parking zones
- Obstructing emergency access
- Illegally left for extended periods
- Involved in accidents or breakdowns
In most cases, law enforcement authorises the tow, not private people. A tow company like NERD Towing must receive approval before removing your vehicle from public property.
Key points to remember:
- Police often initiate vehicle towing on public roads
- The owner is usually notified after the vehicle is towed
- Towing fees apply even if the tow was not requested by the owner
Private Property Towing Rules You Should Know
Private property towing is where most confusion arises. A property owner does have rights, but those rights are not unlimited. Clear notice is usually required before moving someone’s vehicle.
Common examples include:
- Apartment complexes
- Shopping centers
- Office parking lots
In many states, the property owner must:
- Post visible towing signs
- Work with a licensed towing company
- Provide written authorization
NERD Towing ensures every tow from private property meets legal standards, including proper notice and authorisation. Unauthorised towing can result in penalties for towing companies that violate regulations.
Role of Law Enforcement in Vehicle Towing
Law enforcement involvement adds legal authority to the towing process. Police officers can order a vehicle towed for safety, traffic control, or legal violations.
Situations that often require police authorisation include:
- Accidents blocking the road
- Vehicles involved in crimes
- Abandoned or illegally parked cars
In these cases, the owner’s permission is not required. However, documentation is essential. A tow company must record details to prove the tow was lawful. NERD Towing works closely with law enforcement to ensure every vehicle towed meets regulatory requirements.
When a Tow Company Can Tow Your Vehicle Legally
Not all towing companies operate the same way. A professional tow company must follow strict laws before removing a car. Simply wanting to remove it is not enough.
A tow company can tow your vehicle if:
- Authorisation is legal and documented
- The vehicle is violating the posted rules
- The car is blocking access or creating danger
A reputable towing company like NERD Towing never removes a vehicle without proper cause. This protects both the property owner and the vehicle owner from disputes.
Important safeguards include:
- Verifying written authorization
- Confirming signage requirements
Following state towing laws
Understanding Towing Fees and Storage Charges
One of the biggest concerns after a vehicle is towed is the cost. Towing fees can vary widely depending on location, distance, and storage time.
Typical charges may include:
- Initial tow fee
- Mileage or distance charges
- Daily storage fees
- After-hours or administrative fees
If your vehicle is towed, always ask for an itemised receipt. NERD Towing believes in transparency and provides clear explanations of every fee charged.
Tips to reduce costs:
- Retrieve your vehicle as soon as possible.
- Ask about payment options.
- Verify that fees comply with state regulations.
What to Do If You Believe Your Vehicle Was Towed Without Permission
If you suspect your car was towed illegally, stay calm and take action. Knowing your rights can make a big difference.
Steps to follow:
- Contact local law enforcement to confirm the tow
- Ask the tow company for authorisation details
- Take photos of signage or parking conditions
- Review local towing laws
If the tow was unauthorised, you may have the right to dispute the charges. NERD Towing encourages vehicle owners to ask questions and understand exactly why their vehicle was towed.
How States Regulate Unauthorized Vehicle Towing
Every state has its own towing laws, but most share common principles. Regulations exist to protect vehicle owners from unfair practices.
State laws often cover:
- Maximum towing fees
- Notice requirements
- Licensing of towing companies
- Owner’s rights after a vehicle is towed
A professional service like NERD Towing stays up to date with changing laws to ensure compliance. This commitment helps build trust with both property owners and the public.
Choosing a Trustworthy Towing Company Matters
When dealing with towing, professionalism matters. A reliable tow company focuses on safety, legality, and customer respect.
Qualities to look for include:
- Proper licensing and insurance
- Clear communication
- Compliance with towing regulations
- Fair and transparent pricing
NERD Towing takes pride in delivering dependable service while respecting the rights of every vehicle owner. Whether assisting law enforcement or private property owners, the goal is always lawful and ethical vehicle towing.
Contact Us
When uncertainty strikes and your vehicle’s safety matters, trust the experts who know the law inside and out. NERD Towing is committed to professional, legal, and transparent towing service you can rely on. Contact NERD Towing today for dependable assistance and peace of mind when it matters most.
