What Are the Towing Laws in Texas? A Guide for Saginaw Drivers

Towing is often an unexpected event, whether it happens because of an accident, breakdown, or unauthorized parking. Understanding Texas towing laws can help you be prepared if your vehicle is ever towed and ensure that you know your rights and responsibilities. At Liomee Towing and Transport in Saginaw, TX, we believe in providing transparent services, and we’re here to explain the towing regulations in Texas and what you need to know if your vehicle gets towed.

Key Towing Laws in Texas

Texas has established several regulations to ensure transparency, fairness, and protection for vehicle owners when it comes to towing. Here are some key towing laws that you should be aware of:

1. Towing from Private Property

If your vehicle is parked on private property without authorization, it may be subject to towing. However, property owners and towing companies must adhere to certain rules to tow a vehicle legally:

• Signage Requirement: The property owner must post visible signs indicating that unauthorized vehicles will be towed. These signs must be clearly displayed at all entrances to the property and provide the name and contact information of the towing company responsible for the tow.
• Immediate Towing: In Texas, if a vehicle is illegally parked in a fire lane, blocking a driveway, or occupying a reserved spot (such as a handicap space without a permit), it may be towed without prior notice.
• Written Authorization: Towing companies must obtain written authorization from the property owner or an authorized representative before towing a vehicle, except in cases of immediate threats to public safety or traffic flow.

2. Towing from Public Property

When a vehicle is towed from a public street or property, the rules are generally enforced by law enforcement agencies:

• Law Enforcement Authorization: A vehicle may be towed from public property if it’s parked illegally, obstructing traffic, or posing a safety hazard. Law enforcement will typically authorize the tow, and the vehicle will be taken to a designated impound lot.
• Notification Requirement: After a vehicle is towed from public property, the towing company is required to notify the vehicle owner within a specific timeframe. Notification must include the reason for the tow, the location of the impound lot, and instructions on how to retrieve the vehicle.

3. Maximum Fees for Towing and Storage

Texas law places limits on the fees that towing companies can charge for towing and storage:

• Maximum Towing Fees: The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) sets a maximum allowable fee for non-consent tows, which varies based on the type of vehicle and tow. These fees are designed to prevent excessive charges and ensure that towing services are provided at fair rates.
• Storage Fees: Towing companies can charge daily storage fees for storing a towed vehicle, but these fees must also adhere to state limits. Storage fees begin accruing after the vehicle arrives at the storage facility, and owners are encouraged to retrieve their vehicles as soon as possible to minimize costs.

4. Vehicle Owner Rights and Notification

If your vehicle has been towed, you have certain rights under Texas law:

• Access to Personal Belongings: Even if you are unable to pay the towing and storage fees right away, you have the right to access your personal belongings inside the vehicle. Towing companies must allow you to retrieve essential items like wallets, medication, and important documents.
• Notification: The towing company must notify the vehicle owner of the tow within 24 hours if the tow occurred without the owner’s consent. The notification should include information about why the vehicle was towed, where it is being stored, and how to reclaim it.

5. Payment Options

Towing companies in Texas must accept multiple forms of payment for towing and storage fees, including cash, credit cards, and debit cards. This ensures that vehicle owners have convenient payment options when reclaiming their vehicles.

6. Filing a Complaint

If you believe your vehicle was towed illegally or you were overcharged for towing and storage services, you can file a complaint with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). It’s important to keep all documentation, including receipts and photographs of the towing scene if possible, to support your claim.

Tips for Avoiding a Tow in Texas

To avoid the stress and expense of having your vehicle towed, follow these tips:

• Pay Attention to Signage: Always check for parking signs when parking in unfamiliar areas, especially on private property. Make sure you are parking legally and are aware of any restrictions.
• Do Not Block Entrances or Driveways: Avoid parking in areas that could block driveways, fire lanes, or loading zones, as these are common reasons for immediate towing.
• Check Parking Permits: In areas that require parking permits, ensure you have the proper permit visible to avoid being towed.

What to Do If Your Vehicle Is Towed

If your vehicle has been towed in Texas, follow these steps:

1. Locate Your Vehicle: You can contact the towing company directly using the information provided on the signage at the location where your vehicle was towed. You can also contact the local law enforcement non-emergency line to find out where your vehicle is being held.
2. Gather Required Documents: To retrieve your vehicle, you’ll need to provide proof of ownership, such as your vehicle registration or title, along with a valid ID.
3. Pay the Fees: Be prepared to pay the towing and storage fees to release your vehicle. The towing company is required to accept multiple forms of payment, including credit or debit cards.

Why Choose Liomee Towing and Transport in Saginaw, TX?

At Liomee Towing and Transport, we are committed to providing ethical and professional towing services that comply with all Texas state regulations. Here’s why residents and businesses in Saginaw, TX, trust us:

• Licensed and Certified: We are fully licensed and certified to provide towing services in Texas, ensuring that all our practices meet state requirements.
• Transparent Pricing: We believe in transparent pricing, and we follow all state-mandated guidelines for towing and storage fees. You can count on us for fair and honest service.
• Customer-Focused Service: We prioritize customer satisfaction and work hard to ensure that our customers receive prompt, courteous, and reliable service whenever they need a tow.

Conclusion: Understanding Texas Towing Laws

Understanding Texas towing laws can help you avoid unnecessary tows and protect your rights if your vehicle is ever towed. Whether you’re dealing with a private property tow or a roadside incident, knowing the rules and your options can make the process much smoother.

At Liomee Towing and Transport in Saginaw, TX, we’re here to provide towing services you can trust. Our team is ready to assist you with any towing or roadside assistance needs, day or night.

Need Towing Services in Saginaw, TX? Contact Liomee Towing and Transport Today.