The Colorado Springs Gazette final

‘Predatory’ towing protections begin

BY HANNAH METZGER hannah.metzger@coloradopolitics.com

Several regulations to protect Coloradans from what many consider to be “predatory” towing practices took effect Wednesday, thanks to a new state law passed in June.

The so-called towing bill of rights makes several changes, such as mandating that towing companies provide a 24-hour notice before towing vehicles located on residential properties. Other major changes include the following requirements for towing companies:

• Release a vehicle free at the owner’s request if the vehicle has been hooked up to a tow truck but not yet removed from the property.

• Release a towed vehicle if 15% of the fees have been paid, not to exceed $60.

• Do not tow a vehicle for expired registration and plates unless ordered by law enforcement.

• Release the personal property inside a towed vehicle upon the owner’s request within 30 days of sending the notice that the vehicle was towed.

• Prominently display maximum allowable fees charged for towing on website and place of business.

• Do not charge for vehicle storage before notifying vehicle owner about the location that the vehicle was towed to.

• Photograph a vehicle before towing to document its condition.

These changes were established by House Bill 1314, with the bill sponsors saying it will help protect residents from the financial hardships of paying for unexpected tows due to minor parking offenses in residential communities, such as apartment complexes and mobile home parks.

The new rights only apply from Wednesday onward.

The bill also allocates $100,000 to create the Office of Tow Hearings within the Public Utilities Commission, responsible for waiving fees and handling complaints against towing companies that are not following the new rules.

LOCAL & STATE

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https://daily.gazette.com/article/281732683262059

The Gazette, Colorado Springs