How to Prevent Your Car from Being Illegally Towed
Let's be real—having your car towed is bad enough. But when it's done illegally? That's a whole different level of aggravation. At D&G Towing, we understand what proper towing services should look like. So let’s walk you through the essentials to help you steer clear of a towing truck that has no business touching your vehicle.
1. Know Where You Park
Illegal towing often starts with illegal parking. Make sure you're not in a no-parking zone, fire lane, or someone’s private property without permission. Those spots are towing magnets. Even if it feels like you’ll only be a minute, the wrong spot can cost you a fortune in towing fees.
2. Check for Proper Signage
Some towing companies exploit vague or poorly placed signage to justify towing. Before you park, always look for clearly posted signs indicating towing enforcement. These signs should list the towing company by name, provide their contact number, and outline the specific violations that can lead to a tow. If that information is missing, you may have legal grounds to contest the tow.
3. Don't Ignore Your Dashboard
Believe it or not, ignoring those dashboard warning lights can put your car on a tow truck fast. A stalled or disabled vehicle is an easy target. Check out our blog "Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Dashboard Warning Lights" for a deep dive on that.
4. Keep Your Registration Visible
In some cases, expired tags or missing plates can get you towed—especially in commercial or apartment parking lots. Make sure your registration is current and clearly displayed to avoid unnecessary towing truck drama.
5. Understand the Rules for Apartment Complexes and Commercial Lots
Each place has its own rules when it comes to private property towing. If you're visiting a friend or shopping somewhere new, double-check where visitors are allowed to park. Don’t assume. Trust us.
6. Keep Records
Snap a quick photo of where you parked, especially if you're in a gray area. That little bit of evidence can come in clutch if you have to challenge an illegal tow.
7. Install a Dash Cam
This won’t stop a tow from happening, but it could provide crucial evidence if your vehicle was taken without cause. Plenty of dash cams include motion‑detection mode, recording any movement around your vehicle while the engine’s shut off.
Want More Real-World Advice?
We've got you. Here are some other blogs from D&G Towing that can help you out:
The Role of Private Property Towing Services in Parking Management
How Private Property Towing Helps Businesses Manage Parking Issues
Final Thoughts
Illegal towing sucks. But by being aware of the rules and your surroundings, you can keep your car safe and avoid dealing with a rogue towing company. And if you ever need reliable, professional towing services in Fresno, D&G Towing has your back.
Don’t forget to check out all our blogs for expert advice on everything from jump starts to vehicle recovery and more.
