What to Do When a Towing Company Illegally Sells Your Car

Have you been in a situation where your car was towed by a towing company without your consent, and the company then sold your car to their employee? If your car is still in your name but you received two different tickets at your home, it raises serious concerns about the legality of the incident. This article will guide you through the necessary steps you should take to address such a situation.

Understanding the Legal Implications of an Illegal Tow

Firstly, it’s important to understand that not all towings are illegal. Towing companies are typically empowered to tow vehicles if there is non-payment of a third-party loan, failure to comply with parking regulations, or if the vehicle is abandoned. However, if the tow was unauthorized (i.e., without proper notification or due cause), it could be considered a civil infraction.

In such cases, you are still the legal owner of the car until your title issues are resolved. It's crucial to gather and present clear evidence if you intend to pursue legal action against the towing company. This evidence might include:

Photographs of the tow and the towing procedure Witness statements or accounts from other individuals Communication logs with the towing company The two tickets you received, if any A detailed record of your car’s last known location and your efforts to locate it

The towing company would have a strong defense if they can prove that they followed proper procedures. They would likely state that your car was towed for non-payment of loan installments or for illegal parking, and that they provided you with proper notification to reclaim your vehicle.

Steps to Take After an Illegal Tow

There are several immediate steps you should take post-towing to protect your rights and possibly reclaim your vehicle:

Document everything: Keep a detailed record of all communications with the towing company, the tow date, and the reason provided for towing. Review any reports, tickets, and receipts in detail. Report the incident: File a police report if the towing company does not release your car. This is crucial for establishing your claim that the vehicle was towed illegally and without proper notice. Notify your insurance company: Contact your insurance provider and inform them of the towing incident. They can assist you with any necessary legal actions and may cover the cost of your car if it has been sold. Seek legal advice: Consider consulting a lawyer who specializes in towing and vehicle title issues. A professional can help you build a strong case and understand the legal implications.

Towing companies are not allowed to sell cars without clear title. An abandoned vehicle would typically undergo a period of time before it can be sold. If you took reasonable steps to locate and reclaim your car, you might have more grounds for legal action.

Conclusion

While it might seem like a daunting situation, taking proactive steps can help you protect your rights and potentially recover your car. Remember to gather all relevant evidence, file necessary reports, and seek professional advice if needed. Your determination and diligence will be key in navigating this challenging situation.