Finding out that your car has been towed without proper cause is frustrating, stressful, and expensive. Illegal towing happens more often than you might think, with some tow companies unfairly targeting vehicles in unclear parking zones, private lots, or even from legal spaces. Many drivers end up paying hefty fees just to retrieve their cars, even when the tow was unlawful. However, you can take steps to prevent this from happening. In this blog, we will list the five effective ways to keep your car safe from unauthorized removal.
1. Park in Legal and Well-Marked Areas
The simplest way to avoid towing trouble is to park only in designated spots. Before leaving your car, check for:
- No Parking signs – Some spots may have restrictions based on the time of day.
- Permit-only zones – Certain areas require a resident or business permit.
- Tow-away zones – Look for signs stating that unauthorized vehicles will be towed.
- Handicapped spots – Unless you have a valid permit, avoid these spaces entirely.
When parking in private lots, read the signs carefully. If you park in a restricted area, even by accident, tow trucks may show up within minutes.
2. Know Your Rights and Local Towing Laws
Many car owners don’t realize that tow companies must follow specific laws before towing a vehicle. These laws vary by state or city. Here are some key regulations to check in your city:
Visible warning signs – Private parking lots must have clear signs at all entrances stating towing policies, the tow company’s contact details, and fees.
Written authorization – In many areas, a tow company cannot remove a vehicle from private property without a signed request from the property owner or manager.
Grace periods – Some cities require a waiting period before a vehicle can be towed from restricted parking zones.
To protect yourself, keep records whenever you park:
- Take a quick photo of your car and any nearby parking signs.
- Save parking receipts, especially in paid lots.
- If you have a parking permit, display it clearly.
These simple steps provide solid proof in case of a dispute. If your car is towed illegally, having evidence makes it easier to challenge the tow and get your car back without paying unfair fees.
3. Use Dash Cams and GPS Trackers for Protection
Technology can be your best defense against illegal towing. A dash cam with motion sensors can capture footage of a tow truck approaching your car. If a driver tries to tow your vehicle without authorization, the footage can serve as proof to fight against wrongful towing fees.
Consider installing a real-time GPS tracker on your car. If your vehicle gets towed, you’ll get an instant alert and can track its location live. Some GPS systems allow you to set up geofencing, so if your car moves beyond a certain area, you receive a notification.
Another smart step is to activate parking mode on your dash cam. Many modern dash cams record any movement around your vehicle, capturing the tow truck and driver’s actions. If your car is unlawfully taken, you’ll have solid evidence to file a complaint or dispute the charges.
4. Make Your Car Difficult to Tow
Illegal tow operators look for easy targets. If you make your car difficult to tow, they may move on to the next vehicle. Here’s how you can reduce the chances of your vehicle being towed:
Turn your wheels toward the curb – This makes it harder for tow trucks to hook onto your car and pull it out of a parking spot.
Use your parking brake – Engaging the brake adds resistance, making it more challenging to tow your vehicle.
Angle your tires if parking in a lot – If there’s no curb, turning your wheels at an angle still makes it harder to tow.
Park between larger vehicles – Towing companies prefer vehicles with easy access. Parking between other cars makes it more difficult for them to hook up your vehicle quickly.
If a tow truck driver sees that your vehicle requires extra effort to tow, they may move on to an easier target. This method works best if you park in areas where illegal towing is a known issue.
5. Confront Suspicious Tow Trucks Immediately
If you notice a tow truck approaching your car or starting to hook it up, act fast. Walk up confidently and ask the driver:
- Who authorized the tow?
- Where are they taking the vehicle?
- Can they show proper documentation?
Many illegal towing companies operate in shady ways, and when questioned, they may back off. If the driver refuses to provide clear answers, take photos or record a video. Getting evidence of their actions can help you report them and avoid unfair charges.
Final Say!
Protecting your car from illegal towing starts with awareness and simple preventive measures. Being mindful of where and how you park, securing your vehicle, and using technology can make all the difference. If a tow does happen, staying calm and knowing your rights can help you take the right steps to recover your vehicle without unnecessary stress or expense. Taking action before a problem arises is always easier than dealing with the frustration later.
Read another blogs:
7 Best Ways to Find Affordable Towing Services Near You
5 Most Dangerous Towing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them