In Florida, towing laws are governed at the state level. This blog will provide information on when and where your car can be legally towed in the state of Florida. We will also provide tips on what you can do to avoid being towed illegally. If you live in Florida or are planning to visit, be sure to bookmark this blog and check back often for updates!
Reasons You Can Be Towed
It’s important that when finding a parking spot, you ensure you’re allowed to park there. It’s vital to be vigilant when it comes to signs prohibiting you from parking. Some places you can be towed from are:
- Handicap spaces without the correct permit
- When blocking a driveway to a private residence
- Obstructing a public right of way
- Parked in a private or reserved space that isn’t for you
- Parked in a way or space that prevents a business from operating
When Is a Towing Illegal?
For towing to be illegal, there must be a lack of appropriate signage displayed alerting that where the vehicle is parked is a tow-away zone. The sign must include a clear indication that if the vehicle is parked and left here, it will be towed at the owner’s expense. The other items that must be clearly marked on a tow zone must be the phrase “tow-away zone” and the number and name of the company or individual responsible for towing the vehicle.
If the proper signage is not clearly and accurately displayed, the towing still may be legal if the parked vehicle is disrupting traffic, business, or blocking a private driveway.
A company must also notify the police department within thirty minutes of towing your vehicle. They must provide where it was towed from, where it is being towed to, and where the vehicle will be stored. Tow truck companies are required to provide law enforcement with a complete copy of the rates at which your car was towed. The rate provided must match with any posted rates at the towing facility and any contracts given to the owner of the vehicle.
How We Can Help
If you’ve had your vehicle towed, you know how frustrating it can be. It can be made even more frustrating if your vehicle is returned to you damaged and neglected. Our team of trespass lawyers can help you identify the right course of action. They can help provide you with counsel to sort out what types of documentation are needed to pursue maximum compensation.
For all of your illegal towing needs and questions contact RAK Law Firm, PLLC at (813) 750-0513! Trust your future to us.
Due to our current caseload, our office does not have the resources to take on any additional illegal towing related matters. Any illegal towing matters should be referred to the Lawyer Referral Service Online (available 24/7) at https://www.floridabar.org/public/lrs/. You can also call (800) 342-8011 Monday through Friday 8:00am to 5:30pm.