Towing is an essential service that helps clear roads and assists drivers in emergencies. However, there has been an increasing issue in many cities related to unethical towing practices, commonly called “bandit towing.” This problem occurs when towing companies or individuals engage in illegal, predatory, or deceptive practices to profit from towing vehicles, often without the owner’s consent or in violation of local laws.

What is Bandit Towing?

“Bandit towing” refers to towing practices that exploit drivers by taking advantage of legal loopholes, misleading signage, and unfair towing fees. These towing companies operate outside of the established rules and regulations, often targeting drivers who park in areas where they have little to no legal recourse. Bandit towing is more prevalent in busy urban areas like Los Angeles, New York City, and Philadelphia, as well as commercial parking lots and places with high foot traffic.

The most common types of bandit towing involve:

  • Unauthorized Towing: Towing vehicles without proper notice or authorization, such as removing cars that are legally parked or in violation of ambiguous or unclear parking signs.
  • Excessive Fees: Charging exorbitant fees for the towing and storage of vehicles, often far beyond the legal limits set by municipalities. In some cases, these fees are so high that drivers are left with no choice but to pay, and often only cash payments are accepted.
  • Deceptive Practices: Towing companies might misrepresent the reason for the tow or provide misleading information to drivers in an attempt to pressure them into paying quickly without understanding their rights.
  • Aggressive Towing: Some bandit towing operations actively monitor parking lots or areas to tow vehicles as soon as they are parked, often before the driver has even left the premises, leaving little time to contest the tow. 
  • (Un)helpful Witness: Bandit tow truck drivers will monitor police scanners for motor vehicle accidents and arrive at the scene immediately. A “witness” will appear on scene pretending to help the crash victim, offering to call in a tow that will be fast and cheaper than calling the insurance carrier.
  • Immediate Response: If you’re in an accident, a bandit tow truck will show up almost immediately. Only you, your insurance company, or law enforcement should call for a tow truck, and it likely won’t be within minutes of the accident. Bandit truck drivers will often pose as if they work with multiple insurance companies or vehicle brands to make themselves appear legitimate. Only allow your car to be towed by a tow company dispatched by your insurance company or the police department.

How to Protect Yourself from Bandit Towing

While the issue of bandit towing is difficult to completely eradicate, there are steps you can take to protect yourself from falling victim to such practices:

1. Understand Local Towing Laws

Towing laws vary from city to city, and it’s essential to understand the rules in your area. Local governments typically regulate towing practices, including requirements for clear signage, proper authorization for towing, and caps on fees. Tow trucks must also be licensed and, in some jurisdictions, have permits from Highway Patrol or other law enforcement agencies. 

2. Pay Attention to Signage

When parking, always look for clear signage that indicates towing policies. Parking lot owners and managers are required to post visible and readable signs detailing where cars can and cannot park, along with information about towing companies and fees. The owner of a business is the only one who can call in a tow and has to have witnessed the violation of parking restrictions for a tow to be ordered.

3. Document the Situation

If your vehicle is towed, document everything. Take pictures of the area where you parked, the signage (or lack thereof), and your vehicle. If you believe the tow was illegal, this documentation can help you contest the charges or even file a complaint with the local authorities.

4. Know Your Rights

Research your rights when it comes to towing. In many jurisdictions, you may have the right to receive detailed information about the tow, including the location where your vehicle has been taken and the reason for the tow. Understanding your rights can help you avoid being intimidated or manipulated by unethical towing companies.

5. Report Suspected Bandit Towing

If you believe you’ve been a victim of bandit towing, report the incident to your local authorities, such as the city’s consumer protection agency or the police department. Filing a formal complaint can help authorities crack down on illegal towing practices and prevent future incidents.

Bandit towing remains an unfortunate issue in many communities, costing unsuspecting drivers and insurance companies significant time and money. However, understanding your rights, paying attention to parking regulations, and reporting illegal activity can reduce the chances of falling victim to unscrupulous towing companies. Whether you’re a driver or a business owner, staying informed and taking proactive steps to protect yourself and others from bandit towing is crucial.  If you believe you have been a victim of a bandit tow, contact your local police department.