Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Oregon

Towing Charge for a Vehicle Reported Stolen 6 Years ago

I've just received a collections letter stating that I owe $571 for towing charges, as I'm the last registered owner of the vehicle (in Oregon state). However, I reported it stolen in 1999 and moved to Chicago in 2000. It was apparently towed in Oct. 2003, and I was living in Dublin, Ireland, so had no way of knowing this. The letter I received today is the first I've heard of the vehicle since 1999. Is it true that I'll have to pay this money or face it affecting my credit report? Thanks very much for your time. And happy holidays!

Jen


Asked on 12/22/05, 6:12 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Kevin Plachta The Law Office of Kevin F. Plachta

Re: Towing Charge for a Vehicle Reported Stolen 6 Years ago

You are under no obligation to pay a bill which you obviously do not owe. I suggest you obtain a copy of the police report which was filled when the car was stolen. I would also obtain any additional information you have showing that when the car was towed you did not own the vehicle. I assume that after the car was stolen you notified the secretary of state so that the records could be corrected. Once you have everything then send it to the collection agencey and that should correct the problem.

Before you do all of that I would first write a letter to the collection agency saying that you are disputing the debt and that you want verification of the debt.

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Answered on 12/22/05, 8:37 pm


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