QuestionI reside in Lancaster, CA. I have been to the DMV webpage, have done extensive research on the internet, and have contacted my local Code Enforcer, all with no luck.
That being said, I'd like to ask if a photocopied signature is allowed on a General Authorization to Tow? The complex has more than 15 units and the photocopied signature is that of an onsite authorized agent. However, I understand that the authorization must be given by a person who is present at the time of towing. Although the gentlemen resides on the premises, how can I be sure that he was at home at the time of towing since his signature is a photocopy? Further more, would it be my burden of proof to show that he was not present at the time of the towing or his to show that he was, since it is his signature that even grants the towing company permission to tow my vehicle in the first place?
I appreciate any advice you can offer. If you require more information, please let me know. Thank you.
AnswerFrom what I understand of the California laws, the authorizing person needs to be present and sign the authorization form when the vehicle is towed...
Copies are not supposed to be legal from what I seen.
Proof that the person is there would be hard to do, but depending on the forms used it can be done... After all in court they would have to produce the authorization to the judge... (I personally like using Blue ink as it does not photocopy correct unless you use a color copy machine)
But that being said, I would question it as to being a legal tow would all depend on how the judge would interpret the laws and rule on the authorization. And unfortunately well all know that it can go anyway for a answer in that case. I would love to say you would win, but it might not go that way. But I would think that a "copy" of the authorization would not be as good as an "original" of it.
Wish I could help more.
