Requirements for towing and storing towed motor vehicles, cargo and personal property. In towing and storing a towed motor vehicle, cargo and personal property, the operator shall:
1. Treat original and substituted accessories and equipment of the motor vehicle as part of the vehicle rather than personal property.
2. Protect from theft and damage a towed motor vehicle, cargo and personal property which comes into his possession as the result of a tow.
3. Provide access during normal business hours to motor vehicles which were towed to the owner, or the agent of the owner.
4. Establish procedures that allow the owner, or agent of the owner, of a towed motor vehicle access to the vehicle or to obtain the release of the vehicle during those periods in which the operator is not normally open for such transactions.
5. Not hold or retain any cargo or personal property which comes into his possession as the result of towing as security or for any purpose other than compliance with the direction of appropriate law enforcement agencies.
6. Afford the owner of the vehicle or his agent the opportunity to inspect and inventory the vehicle before release to detect damage or theft of property. If damage or theft is detected, the operator shall:
(a) Resolve the complaint to the satisfaction of the claimant; or
(b) Identify the carrier of its insurance and explain the procedure for filing a claim.
Last modified: February 26, 2006