The towing industry in Washington is highly regulated. In fact, we’re one of the best states in the country when it comes to protecting drivers from predatory towing practices, according to U.S. PIRG, a consumer advocacy group.
Here are some of your rights:
- Your vehicle cannot be towed from nonresidential private property or a public parking facility unless a sign is posted and visible near each entrance and on the property. That sign must show when an unauthorized vehicle can be impounded, and the name, phone number, and address of the towing company where the vehicle can be redeemed.
- If a vehicle is impounded, the tow company must send a first-class letter to the registered owner within 24 hours.
- The maximum tow rate and daily storage rate are both regulated, and those rates must be filed with the state.
- A registered tow truck operator must have someone who can be contacted 24 hours a day to release impounded vehicles within a reasonable time.
- The impound lot must accept cash, bank credit cards, or personal checks (drawn on Washington state branches of financial institutions) if accompanied by two pieces of valid identification.
The city of Seattle has its own towing protections: Find a Towed Car, and Maximum Towing Fees for Private Property Impounds.
More Info: Getting Off the Hook of a Predatory Tow, Part II