Legal Question in Traffic Law in Florida

Can I use the title application receipt to redeem my towed car? The car was towed from my apartment because it was inoperable.

Since the registration is not in my name (in my dad�s name who lives in another state; I live in Florida), the towing co. said I could either show them an authorization letter from my dad, or show the car title in my name. I chose the latter option so that the junk car co. can pick it up with me from the towing co. then dispose it (since the car is inoperable and I won't have anywhere to park it in after redeeming, I thought this was the best option). The junk car co. said they need the title, so my dad went to the Texas DMV and transferred the title to me and then sent me the title application receipt. However, the towing co. refused to release the vehicle to me, saying the title application receipt is not sufficient, even though it clearly shows my name as the new owner. The actual title will arrive in about 30 days, but by that time the towing co. said they will already be auctioning a car then put a lien on my name.


Asked on 7/19/12, 8:29 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Craig Epifanio Craig Epifanio, P.A.

You need to let them know that they risk being sued for theft. Let them know that. You may want to hire an attorney to send them a civil theft letter. Towing companies have their own statutes they are governed by so you really need to talk to a civil attorney about this.

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Answered on 7/21/12, 9:27 am


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