Can a Tow Company Hold Your Car in Arizona?
Can a Tow Company Hold Your Car in Arizona?
In Arizona, a tow company can legally hold your vehicle under certain circumstances, such as when your car has been towed due to parking violations, accidents, or other reasons. However, you can retrieve your vehicle by providing the tow company with your driver’s license or another reliable form of identification, which will assist in the billing and collection of towing and storage fees. It’s important to be aware of your rights and responsibilities in such situations, as prompt action can help minimize the costs associated with towing and storage. Additionally, familiarizing yourself with local regulations and the towing company’s policies can help you navigate the process of recovering your vehicle more smoothly.
If your car has been towed in Arizona, you may be wondering if the towing company has the right to hold onto your vehicle. In this informative blog post, we will outline the circumstances under which a tow company can legally hold your car and what you can do to get your vehicle back as quickly as possible. Chelle Law is a reputable criminal defense law firm in Scottsdale, Arizona, with extensive experience helping clients navigate the complexities of Arizona’s towing laws.
Arizona Towing Laws: An Overview
In Arizona, the laws governing the towing and impoundment of vehicles are set forth in the Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS), Title 28. Under these laws, a tow company has certain rights and responsibilities when it comes to holding your vehicle. It’s important to understand your rights and the steps you can take to retrieve your car without incurring unnecessary expenses.
Reasons a Tow Company Can Hold Your Car in Arizona
According to ARS § 28-4841, a tow company can hold your car under several circumstances:
- Your vehicle is involved in a serious accident, blocking traffic, or creating a hazard.
- You are parked in a tow-away zone or on private property without permission.
- The police have ordered the vehicle impounded due to a criminal offense, such as driving under the influence (DUI) or driving on a suspended license.
In these cases, the tow company has the legal right to hold your car and charge fees for storage and administrative services.
How to Retrieve Your Car from a Tow Company in Arizona
The process to reclaim your car from a tow company varies depending on the reason it was towed or impounded. Generally, you must follow these steps:
- Locate your vehicle: Contact the local police department or search the Arizona Department of Public Safety’s Tow Desk to find out which tow company has your car.
- Obtain a release: If the police impound your car, you might need to obtain a release from the police department or the court. You may be required to pay any fines or satisfy other requirements before receiving the release.
- Pay fees: Once you have a release, visit the tow company to pay any applicable towing and storage fees.
- Retrieve your car: Present your release form and a valid ID to the tow company to retrieve your vehicle.
If you believe your car was towed unlawfully or if you’re facing criminal charges related to the impoundment, it’s essential to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney like those at Chelle Law.
Chelle Law: Expert Criminal Defense in Scottsdale, Arizona
At Chelle Law, our knowledgeable team of criminal defense attorneys has helped countless clients resolve their towing and vehicle impoundment issues in Scottsdale and throughout Arizona.
Conclusion
Understanding your rights when your car is towed or impounded in Arizona is crucial to ensure that you can retrieve your vehicle quickly and avoid unnecessary expenses. For a robust defense against criminal charges in Scottsdale, rely on the expertise of Chelle Law’s criminal defense representation.
