Washington State law provides important protections for vehicle owners when it comes to towing. Whether your car has been towed from private property or after an accident, knowing your rights can help you avoid unfair charges and handle disputes effectively.
You have the right to retrieve your vehicle during the tow company's regular business hours. Before any tow from private property, you're entitled to see the fee schedule. The property must have proper signage warning that unauthorized vehicles will be towed, as required by RCW 46.55.070.
Rate protections are built into Washington law. Tow companies must provide an itemized receipt for all charges. For private impounds, rates are capped at 135% of the State Patrol's negotiated rates. You can also retrieve personal belongings from your impounded vehicle without paying the full tow and storage fees first.
If you believe your vehicle was towed improperly, you have the right to request a hearing under RCW 46.55.120. This is particularly important for private property tows where signage may have been inadequate or the tow was otherwise improper. Document everything: take photos of the location, any signage, and keep all receipts.
Key Points
- Right to retrieve vehicle during business hours
- Right to see fee schedule before tow
- Private property must have proper warning signage (RCW 46.55.070)
- Can request hearing if tow was improper (RCW 46.55.120)
- Tow companies must provide itemized receipts
- Rate caps protect against excessive fees on private impounds
- Can retrieve personal belongings from impounded vehicle
- Document everything: photos, signage, receipts
Local Resources
| Resource | Phone | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Lynnwood Police (non-emergency) | (425) 744-6900 | Towing disputes |
| Snohomish County Sheriff | (425) 388-3393 | Unincorporated areas |
| WA Attorney General Consumer Protection | 1-800-551-4636 | File complaints |