Towing Issues: towing and impound, tow truck operators, seattle pi

Question
My car was towed/impounded on January 2nd from a friends apartment in Everett WA.  I parked in a spot that was numbered but said number was buried under snow and ice with no signage indicating that it was reserved. I have a court date to contest the $421.58 I was charged for a 1.5 mile tow and 3 hour impound.  I am contesting the tow/impound on the grounds that I had no way of knowing it was a reserved spot due to snow.  I read a Seattle PI article that says "Under Washington law, tow truck operators can't take a car unless authorized by a property owner or law enforcement officer to tow a specific vehicle."  Is this true?  I have searched and can't seem to find the RCW.  Any help you could off would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks in advance

Answer
Well, I can not say that your issue is new or unique.  Numbered or marked spaces always have issues with snow and ice, and even leaves...

Now that being said, the rates in Washington are generally in line with the rates authorized by WSP for towing. (Makes it easy to follow the rules and stay legal for the tow company)

Now in a snow issue, you will also find that the tow truck will not be moving as fast so the times will be more to do even simple tows.


Now as to the RCW, there are about 40 rules for towing, and I will give you a link so you can search it and find the sections which apply to your case. You have the answers I would be guessing on them..

Good luck and hope the link helps you in the hearing..

http://law.justia.com/washington/codes/2005/title46/46.55.html