Towing Issues: tractor trailer tow, better business bureau, towing association

Question
QUESTION: I am only responsible for the tractor tow and it has been paid the trailer however is not owned and is the responsibility of a third party  the tow company refuses to release the truck with out paying for the trailer  they have already collected 15,000.00 for the cargo and 5360.00 for the truck and will not let the truck leave until the trailer bill (7200.00) is paid  can they do this

ANSWER: I will need some more information to help you. What state is this vehicle in and what was the reason for the tow (accident, repo etc.)

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: it is in new York and was towed from the accident scene

Answer
If the tractor is owned separately from the trailer the towing company cannot hold it once the fees have been paid. It would be like you renting a u-haul trailer and towing it with your vehicle. If you had an accident you would have to pay for your vehicle, towing and storage and if you wanted your personal property probably storage on it. They could not refuse to give you your vehicle once you paid for it. I would contact the local towing association there, the better business bureau and the city department that is over licensing for towing agencies.