Towing Dispute Resolution Steps

Summary

If your car is towed in California before being hooked up, you can request its release without charge. If already hooked, a release fee may apply. To dispute a towing charge, contact the towing company for a detailed invoice, draft a dispute letter, gather evidence like photos and witness statements, and file a complaint with the California Bureau of Automotive Repair if unresolved.

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CHP at arrowbear called a towing company because my car was illegally parked. I arrived before the tow truck was hooked up. However despite my asking, the tow operator refused to stop the tow and the car was towed one hour away. We were charged *$
Hey ****! I'm sorry to hear about your situation. In California, the towing laws state:
- If the car is not yet hooked up, you can request the tow truck operator to release it without charge.
- If the car is hooked up, but not yet moved, you may be charged a release fee.
Would you like guidance on disputing the charge?
Yes
Great! Here's what you can do to dispute the charge:
- Contact the towing company and request a detailed invoice.
- Write a formal dispute letter explaining the situation.
- Include any evidence like photos, timestamps, or witness statements.
- If unresolved, you can file a complaint with the California Bureau of Automotive Repair.
Would you like more details on any of these steps?
Yes
Case Rating: *
You can follow these steps in more detail:
- Contact the towing company: Ask for a detailed invoice, mentioning the time and location of the tow.
- Draft a dispute letter: Clearly state your case, including the fact that you requested the tow be stopped.
- Gather evidence: Photos, timestamps, and witness statements can be crucial.
- File a complaint: If unresolved, contact the California Bureau of Automotive Repair.
Would you like to connect with local lawyers who can better assist you with your case?
Yes
Case Rating: *
Sure, ****. It seems like a high-value case. Would you like to be connected to local lawyers who can better assist you with your case?
What is your phone number?
+* *
Case Rating: *
Sure, ****. I'll need to gather some additional information to connect you with local lawyers who can assist you better.
*. What is your zipcode?
No
Case Rating: *
It looks like you've got everything you need to proceed with your case. Connecting with a local lawyer will provide you with the best chance to resolve this matter successfully. Best of luck, ****! If you have any further questions in the future, feel free to reach out.