Understanding Towing Laws in Virginia: A Guide by Rocket Towing LLC
Your Rights, Responsibilities, and What to Expect When Your Vehicle is Towed in Virginia
When you find yourself needing a tow in Virginia, it’s essential to understand the laws that govern towing practices. At Rocket Towing LLC in Newport News, VA, we believe in transparency and helping our customers feel confident about their rights and responsibilities. Here’s an overview of what you should know about towing laws in Virginia.
1. Who Can Tow Your Vehicle?
In Virginia, private property owners have the right to tow vehicles parked without permission. However, they must work with a licensed towing company, like Rocket Towing LLC, that follows all state and local regulations. Local authorities can also tow vehicles that are illegally parked or abandoned in public spaces.
2. Signs and Notifications
By law, towing companies must provide clear signage if they are authorized to tow from private properties. Signs should be visible, indicating the towing company’s contact information and the towing fees. This ensures drivers are aware of the consequences if they park on private property without permission.
3. Maximum Fees for Towing and Storage
Virginia law caps the maximum fees a towing company can charge for non-consensual towing. Fees vary by locality, so it’s best to check specific regulations for Newport News. Additionally, storage fees begin after the first 24 hours, giving vehicle owners a grace period to retrieve their vehicles.
4. Requirements for Retrieving a Towed Vehicle
Virginia law mandates that towing companies release a vehicle to its owner if they arrive before the tow is complete and are willing to pay a reasonable fee (usually half of the standard towing rate). For those retrieving a vehicle from an impound lot, you’ll need identification and proof of vehicle ownership.
5. Payment Options
Licensed towing companies in Virginia must accept at least two forms of payment, including major credit cards, for both towing and storage fees. This regulation protects vehicle owners by offering flexibility in payment.
6. Rights for Vehicles Towed from Private Property
Virginia protects vehicle owners’ rights by requiring towing companies to follow specific procedures, including timely notification to local authorities after towing a vehicle from private property. This ensures that vehicle owners can quickly locate their vehicles.
7. Contact Information and Dispute Resolution
If you have a dispute over a towing fee or procedure, reach out to local consumer protection agencies or the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Keeping records of towing receipts and any communication with the towing company can be helpful if a dispute arises.
Why Choose Rocket Towing LLC in Newport News, VA?
At Rocket Towing LLC, we’re committed to adhering to Virginia’s towing laws and providing ethical, efficient service. Whether you need roadside assistance, emergency towing, or have questions about your towing rights, our team is here to help. Contact us for reliable and professional towing services in Newport News.