Towing Issues: sold car years later got 2000.00 tow bill, tow company, california dmv

Question
My Husband and I live in WA state.  But this situation happened in Martinez CA.  He sold a car 2 years ago to a guy he worked with.  My brother in-law called me stating that a bill for $2000.00 was sent to his house addressed to my husband.  And it was a towing bill for the car he hasn't owned for 2 years.  There hasn't been any notification or contact prior to this Bill.  I guess my question is how can we be held accountable?  And how should I deal with the issue?    Thanks

Answer
aaaahhh the wonderful California tow bill from sold cars. I get to see that in the news and as questions here a lot.

Did you keep any paperwork as to who you sold the vehicle to when you did sell it. Did you transfer the title and bring the information to DMV as required by law. Did DMV give you a receipt for that information?


All of those needed to be done to get your name of the registration as "LEGAL OWNER" of the vehicle. It sounds like the person who owned it at the time of towing did not change the title to their name and that happens a lot. "THROW AWAY CARS" is what that becomes. as they have no interest or real investment in it. And if they get in a wreck they are not really listed as owner just as driver.

Contact California DMV and see what they say, and also contact the tow company and advise them you do not own the vehicle. They might require some paperwork or statements but they might work it out with you.

Good luck