QuestionI went to a bar I go to every Saturday night. Stayed till closing, asked to have a cab pick me up ( Will not drive drunk ).
Went to pick it up the next day and it had been towed. I contacted the towing company and they reported, they had towed it, because it was abanded.
They wont let me have my truck, even though they shouldn't have towed it. It wasn't abanded.
Gresham, Oregon
AnswerWell Jeremy this issue does happen from time to time and it is frustrating to say the least.
Now as to the "abandoned" vehicle issue, the tow company most likely is saying that because the contract they have with the bar to remove vehicles is one where any vehicle left is considered abandoned. (I hope this is not SET TOWING you are dealing with, as I have read about them and how they operate)
Now as to how to solve this issue. First of all, the bar should of either called the tow company or left a note on or in the vehicle not to tow it in this case. This is more of a courtesy than a requirement.
But since they did not do that, the only options are to ask the bar to pay for the towing and storage, or to have then talk to the tow company and see if they will either cut the price or release it back as a mistake tow.
But the tow company did do the job so they do have expenses, and they should be paid by someone so keep that in mind.
Other choice is for you to pay the towing and storage bill, and then take the bar and the tow company to small claims court and get a judge to rule on it. That might be the last resort (court that is), but it might work.
Now how to solve this from happening in the future, well best answer is if you are going to go to bars and drink, you might consider going there by taxi or have a friend drive who does not drink at all. Designated drivers work good, and I have to applaud you for not drinking and driving. I have seen to many accidents from that.
So keep good paperwork, and receipts if you have to go to court. Keep good notes, and good luck. Hope this helped.
