In Colorado, your car can be towed without warning in specific situations, though generally, a 24-hour written notice is required for nonconsensual towing.
Understanding Colorado's Towing Laws
Colorado has regulations designed to protect vehicle owners from predatory towing practices. These laws often require specific procedures and notifications before a vehicle can be removed from private property.
General 24-Hour Notice Requirement
Under Colorado law, for a nonconsensual tow from private property, towing companies are typically required to provide a written notice at least 24 hours before the tow occurs. This notice is intended to give the vehicle owner ample opportunity to move their vehicle before it is towed, helping to avoid unexpected costs and inconvenience.
When a Warning Isn't Required
While a 24-hour notice is the general rule, there are critical exceptions where a vehicle can be towed immediately without prior warning. These exceptions usually involve situations where the vehicle poses an immediate hazard, obstructs public access, or is parked illegally in a restricted area.
Common scenarios where a car might be towed without a 24-hour warning include:
- Blocking a marked fire zone: Vehicles obstructing emergency access points like fire lanes are subject to immediate towing.
- Blocking an emergency exit or public right-of-way: If your vehicle is preventing access to buildings or blocking a sidewalk or street.
- Parked in a handicapped space without a permit: Unauthorized parking in accessible spaces.
- Abandoned on a public roadway: Vehicles deemed abandoned or left on a roadway for an extended period.
- Impounding for law enforcement reasons: If a vehicle is involved in a crime, is unregistered, or the driver is arrested, it can be impounded immediately by law enforcement.
Your Rights During a Tow
Even if your vehicle is being towed without a warning, you still have specific rights under Colorado law:
| Scenario | Owner's Right |
|---|---|
| Vehicle in process of being towed | If your vehicle has not yet left the private property where it was parked, you can request its immediate release without a fee. |
| Request for release | Towing companies must release the vehicle upon request if it's still on the property, even if they have already hooked it up. |
| Information on impounded vehicles | Towing companies must provide clear information about where your vehicle is located, the charges, and the process for reclaiming it. |
| Detailed invoice | You are entitled to a detailed, itemized invoice of all charges related to the tow and storage. |
| Payment methods | Towing companies are generally required to accept multiple forms of payment, including cash and major credit cards, for vehicle release. |
Practical Tips for Vehicle Owners
Understanding these laws is crucial for protecting yourself. Here are some practical steps to take:
- Read parking signs carefully: Always check for signs indicating parking restrictions, towing policies, or private property rules before parking your car.
- Know your parking location: If you park on private property, understand the property owner's rules and any posted notices.
- Act quickly if your car is being towed: If you see your car being hooked up or actively towed but it hasn't left the property, approach the tow truck driver immediately and assert your right to have it released without charge.
- Document everything: If your car is towed, gather all details including the time, location, towing company name, and driver information. Take photos if possible.
- Contact authorities: If you believe your car was towed illegally or your rights were violated, contact local law enforcement or the Colorado Attorney General's office.
- Review state regulations: For comprehensive details on Colorado towing regulations, consult official state resources, such as those from the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA).
Knowing these rules can help you navigate unexpected towing situations and ensure your rights are protected.
