When it comes to towing in Boston, MA, the process isn't as simple as just hooking up a vehicle and driving off. Whether you're a private property owner seeking to remove unauthorized vehicles or a driver whose car has been towed, it’s important to understand the legal requirements that govern the towing industry in Boston. O'Shea's Towing Service prides ourselves on being fully compliant with all local, state, and federal laws, ensuring every tow is done legally and ethically.
Understanding The Basics Of Towing Regulations
Boston, MA, has specific rules in place that govern towing, largely to protect consumers and vehicle owners from predatory practices. Towing companies must adhere to regulations established by the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) as well as ordinances set forth by the Boston City Council. At a fundamental level, any towing company operating within city limits must be licensed and registered with the state. Additionally, they are required to carry proper insurance coverage, display their license numbers clearly on their vehicles, and provide receipts upon request.
Consent And Notification Protocols
One of the most misunderstood aspects of towing in Boston, MA, involves the issue of consent and notification. In the case of private property towing, consent is implied if proper signage is in place. However, in many other scenarios—such as police-ordered tows or repossessions—the tow must be authorized by a law enforcement official or a lienholder with the proper documentation. When a vehicle is towed without the owner present, the towing company is legally obligated to notify the local police department within one hour of the tow.
This requirement is in place to prevent stolen vehicles from being towed away without a trace and to allow owners to quickly find out where their vehicle has been taken. Towing companies must also provide a copy of the tow receipt to both the vehicle owner and the police. At O'Shea's Towing Service, we maintain rigorous internal tracking and reporting systems to ensure every tow is logged, reported, and properly documented.
Emergency Support, 24/7, Year-Round
Emergencies don’t wait for business hours. Whether you’re locked out of your car at midnight or stuck with a flat on a snowy holiday morning, you can count on O'Shea's Towing Service to be there. We provide 24/7 roadside assistance in Boston, MA, every day of the year. That means no matter when trouble strikes, you’re just one phone call away from professional help.
We’ve built our reputation on reliability and responsiveness. Our commitment to serving Boston drivers around the clock sets us apart from competitors who only offer limited hours or slower response times. When you choose O'Shea's Towing Servic for roadside assistance in Boston, MA, you’re choosing a team that’s always available, always equipped, and always ready to help.
Vehicle Release And Storage Laws
Storage laws are another critical aspect of towing in Medford, MA. Once a vehicle has been towed, the towing company must store it in a secure and accessible location. According to city and state laws, towed vehicles must be available for release within one hour of request during normal business hours. Additionally, storage facilities must be open for a minimum number of hours each week, including some weekend hours, to allow vehicle owners a fair opportunity to retrieve their cars.
Furthermore, companies are required to accept partial payment under certain conditions, particularly if a vehicle is being released after hours. Late release fees, if charged, must be listed on all signage and receipts. O'Shea's Towing Service ensures that all vehicle storage complies with city ordinances and that customers have the ability to retrieve their vehicles as conveniently and quickly as possible.
Legal Rights Of Vehicle Owners
Drivers have specific rights when it comes to towing in Boston, MA. If you believe your vehicle was towed illegally, you have the right to challenge the tow through a formal appeal process. This can involve contacting the Boston Police Department, filing a complaint with the DPU, or even pursuing legal action in small claims court. Towing companies are required to provide clear instructions on how to file a dispute, and failure to do so may invalidate the tow altogether.
O'Shea's Towing Service takes these rights seriously and encourages any customer with concerns to reach out to us directly. We’re committed to resolving any issues quickly and fairly. We understand that being towed can be stressful and frustrating, which is why we work to make the process as smooth and respectful as possible.