Free Tow Authorization PDF Form

How to Fill Out Tow Authorization

Filling out a Tow Authorization form is a critical step in managing the removal of vehicles from private property. This form serves as a lawful agreement between the property owner or agent and the towing company, detailing the reasons for the tow and authorizing the action. It is essential that this document is completed accurately to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations. Below are the detailed steps to fill out this form.

1. Enter the current date and time, including whether it is AM or PM, at the top of the form.
2. In the space provided, write the name and telephone number of the towing company authorized to perform the tow.
3. Fill in the address of the tow company in the designated area.
4. Specify the location from which the vehicle will be removed under "to remove vehicle from."
5. Indicate the reason for the tow (e.g., abandoned, illegally parked, etc.) in the space following the prompt "because."
6. State the amount of time the motor vehicle has been on the private property.
7. Print and sign the name of the law enforcement officer or private property owner/agent authorizing the tow. If the private property owner is different from the authorizing agent, list their name under the relevant section.
8. If the vehicle is removed because it is abandoned, refer to the specific rule and statute provided in the form as a reminder to follow legal protocols.
9. Enter the vehicle's year, make, model, type, and color.
10. Record the vehicle identification number (VIN), license number (LIC. NO), and license state (LIC. STATE).
11. List any vehicle damage in the space provided, ensuring to detail all visible damage to avoid any future disputes.

Upon completing this form, it's important to double-check all entered information for accuracy. This form must be handed over to the towing company as authorization to proceed with the vehicle removal. Keeping a copy of the completed form for personal records is also recommended. This step ensures that all actions taken are well-documented and can be referenced in the future if necessary.

What is a Private Property Impound Tow Authorization Form?

This form is a legal document used to authorize the removal of a vehicle from private property. It is completed by a law enforcement officer or a private property owner/agent when a vehicle is considered abandoned, illegally parked, or otherwise improperly placed on private property. It contains details about the tow company, the vehicle, and the reason for the tow, ensuring the process is conducted lawfully.

Who needs to complete the Tow Authorization Form?

The form must be filled out by a law enforcement officer or a private property owner/agent. This individual is responsible for specifying the details of the tow, including the tow company authorized to remove the vehicle and the reason for the tow.

Can a vehicle be towed without the owner's permission?

Yes, a vehicle can be towed from private property without the owner's permission if it is parked illegally, abandoned, or violates the property's parking regulations. The Tow Authorization Form serves as legal proof that the vehicle's removal was authorized by an appropriate party.

What information is required on the Tow Authorization Form?

The form requires the date and time of authorization, the name and phone number of the towing company, their address, the location from which the vehicle will be removed, and the reason for removal. It also includes the duration the vehicle has been on the property, law enforcement or private property owner/agent's name and signature, vehicle information such as year, make, model, type, color, VIN, and license information, and any vehicle damage.

What happens if vehicle damage is listed on the form?

Listing vehicle damage on the form provides a record of the vehicle's condition before the tow. This can be crucial if any disputes arise concerning the towing process or if additional damage is claimed to have occurred during the tow. It protects both the property owner/agent and the tow company from potential liability.

Is it necessary to inform the vehicle owner before towing?

While specific requirements can vary by locality, generally, efforts should be made to inform the vehicle's owner before towing. This may include posting signs that detail the property's parking regulations and the consequences of violating them. However, immediate towing might be authorized in situations where the vehicle poses a safety risk or significantly hinders operations on the property.

What if the vehicle is removed because it is abandoned?

If a vehicle is towed due to abandonment, the form indicates that reference should be made to specific regulatory rules that govern such situations. These rules outline the steps that must be taken to legally remove an abandoned vehicle, including any required notifications to the owner and potential auctions or disposals of the vehicle.

How long after completing the form can the tow occur?

The tow can occur as soon as the form is completed and signed by an authorized individual. The authorized individual dictates the timing based on the urgency of the situation and the availability of the towing company.

What legal protections does the Tow Authorization Form offer?

By accurately completing and signing the form, all parties—property owners, agents, law enforcement, and tow companies—ensure the tow is performed legally. This documentation can defend against claims of improper towing, providing evidence that the removal was authorized and necessary due to the circumstances stated.

Where should a completed Tow Authorization Form be kept?

A copy of the form should be kept with the property owner/agent or law enforcement officer who authorized the tow, another with the towing company, and ideally, a notice should be sent to the vehicle's owner if possible. This ensures that all parties have a record of the authorization, which can be particularly useful if any disputes arise post-tow.

Filling out a Tow Authorization form is a critical process, often required when a vehicle needs to be removed from private property. Although the form may seem straightforward, certain common mistakes can significantly delay or complicate this process. Here are eight errors to avoid:

1. Failing to properly identify the towing company by not providing both the name and the telephone number. The specific details allow for easy contact and verification.

2. Omitting the address of the towing company, which is essential for documentation and future communication needs.

3. Not specifying the reason for the tow. Whether a vehicle is abandoned, illegally parked, or in violation of specific rules, clarity on this matter ensures legal compliance.

4. Leaving out details about the duration the vehicle has been parked on the property. This information often influences the legal standing of the tow.

5. Ignoring to note any damage on the vehicle. Accurately listing existing damage can protect both the property owner and the towing company against false claims.

6. Incorrectly entering the vehicle information, including the year, make, model, type, color, VIN number, and license details. Accuracy here is crucial for the identification and processing of the vehicle.

7. Not obtaining the print name and signature of the law enforcement officer or authorized private property owner/agent. This omission can question the authorization's validity.

8. Forgetting to check if the vehicle's removal is due to abandonment and, if so, not referring to the relevant laws or regulations, like NMPRC RULE 18.3.12.14 and NMSA 1978, §66-1-4.1. Knowing when to refer to these statutes is important for the legality of the tow.

By addressing these common issues, the process of authorizing a tow can be smoother and legally sound, ensuring a hassle-free experience for all parties involved.

When dealing with the complexities of vehicle towing, especially from private properties, a Tow Authorization form is just the beginning. This document is crucial for legally documenting the consent for a tow operation. However, to ensure a smooth process and compliance with local, state, and federal laws, several other documents are often needed alongside the Tow Authorization form. Here’s an overview of some of the key documents that typically accompany a Tow Authorization form:

• Vehicle Release Form: This document is used when the vehicle owner comes to claim their towed vehicle. It serves as a receipt, outlining the conditions for release and any fees paid.
• Incident Report: Often filled out by the tow truck operator, this report details the condition of the vehicle at the time of towing and the circumstances leading to the tow. It may be used in disputes or claims of damage.
• Storage Agreement: If a vehicle is held for any period, this document outlines the terms and rates for storage, including any liabilities and security measures.
• Property Owner Authorization Letter: This letter from the property owner gives the towing company the authority to remove vehicles from their property, detailing the scope of permission.
• Damage Claim Form: Should a vehicle owner claim that their vehicle was damaged during the tow, this form documents their claim and the details of the alleged damage.
• Tow Ticket/Invoice: This is an itemized invoice of the towing service provided, including towing fees, storage fees, and any other charges incurred by the vehicle owner.
• Insurance Information: The towing company’s insurance documentation may be required to prove they are covered for potential damages during the tow process.
• Driver’s License and Identification: Copies of the tow truck driver’s license and additional identification are sometimes needed for verification and record-keeping.
• Photographic Evidence: Photos taken before and after the tow show the condition of the vehicle and can be critical in resolving disputes about damages.

Together, these documents contribute to a robust and responsible towing process, protecting the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved. Whether you’re a vehicle owner, towing operator, or property manager, being familiar with these forms can help navigate the complexities of vehicle impoundment with greater ease and confidence.

• Vehicle Release Form - Similar to the Tow Authorization form, a Vehicle Release form is used when retrieving a vehicle from an impound lot or a towing company. It typically requires information about the vehicle, authorization by the person retrieving the vehicle, and sometimes, details about the reason the vehicle was impounded.

• Parking Violation Notice - This document is issued to vehicles that are parked in violation of established parking regulations. Like the Tow Authorization form, it provides details about the vehicle and the nature of the violation, which could eventually lead to towing if the issue is not resolved.

• Property Release Form - Used when property is being released from custody, this form parallels the Tow Authorization form by requiring documentation about the property, the reason for its release, and signatures of authorization. Though it's more broad in application, the essence of authorizing the transfer of property under specific conditions is shared.

• Trespass Authorization Form - Entities use this form to give authority to law enforcement or other bodies to act on their behalf in removing individuals or property from private land. Similar to the Tow Authorization form, it's utilized to authorize actions based on violations, in this case, trespassing instead of improper parking or vehicle abandonment.

• Repair Authorization Form - Often used in auto repair shops, this form authorizes service providers to perform work on a vehicle. It includes vehicle information and the owner's consent, analogous to the Tow Authorization form, which includes similar data points for towing purposes.

• Vehicle Impound Notice - This notice is issued to the vehicle owner after their vehicle has been impounded, providing details such as impound reason and vehicle information. Both this document and the Tow Authorization form serve as key communications in the process of dealing with impounded vehicles.

• Tow Ticket/Receipt - This document is given to the vehicle owner or towing service provider after a tow has been completed, detailing services rendered and associated costs. It complements the Tow Authorization form, serving as a transaction record for the authorized tow.

• Vehicle Storage Agreement - Similar to the Tow Authorization form in that it involves vehicles removed from their original location, this agreement authorizes a facility to store a vehicle, detailing terms and conditions akin to those governing towing and storage procedures.

• Accident Report Form - While serving a different primary purpose, accident reports share common elements with the Tow Authorization form, such as vehicle information, involved parties, and the condition of the vehicle. In cases of accidents leading to towing, both types of documentation may be required.

Completing a Tow Authorization form requires attention to detail and accuracy to ensure the process adheres to legal standards. Below are key dos and don’ts to consider:

Do:

1. Fully complete all sections of the form, providing clear and legible information to avoid any misunderstandings or delays.
2. Verify the vehicle's identification number (VIN), make, model, and other details to ensure they match the vehicle being towed. Mistakes here could lead to legal issues.
3. Include a detailed reason for the tow, specifying whether the vehicle is abandoned, illegally parked, or for another reason, to justify the action legally.
4. Ensure the person authorizing the tow has the legal authority to do so. This could be a law enforcement officer or a private property owner or their agent.
5. Document any existing damage to the vehicle before the tow to protect against claims of damage caused during the tow process.

Don't:

1. Leave any fields blank. Unanswered sections can invalidate the form or cause legal complications.
2. Guess information regarding the vehicle or the reasoning for the tow. Inaccuracies can lead to disputes or legal challenges.
3. Forget to provide the specific location from where the vehicle will be towed. A precise location avoids confusion and ensures the tow is legally justified.
4. Overlook the requirement to notify law enforcement if the vehicle is considered abandoned, as mandated by certain regulations and statutes.
5. Fail to provide a copy of the completed form to the tow company for their records and potential legal needs. Both parties should have a copy for their records.

The Tow Authorization form is essential in situations involving the removal of vehicles from private property. However, several misconceptions surround its use and requirements. Understanding these misconceptions can help clear up confusion and ensure the process is handled correctly.

• Misconception 1: Any tow company can remove a vehicle without specific authorization.
  

  This is incorrect. The Tow Authorization form must specifically name the tow company authorized to remove the vehicle, including their contact details and the address of the tow company. This ensures that only designated professionals undertake the removal, adding a layer of security and accountability to the process.

• Misconception 2: A vehicle can be towed immediately without any wait time on private property.
  

  Many believe a vehicle can be towed instantly if found on private property without the owner's consent. However, the form usually requires an indication of how long the vehicle has been present on the property. This period can be crucial in determining whether towing is the appropriate next step, depending on local laws and regulations.

• Misconception 3: The property owner needs to sign the Tow Authorization form themselves.
  

  While it's common to think that the property owner is the only individual who can authorize a tow, this form allows for a law enforcement officer or a designated agent of the property owner to also give authorization. This flexibility is essential in cases where the property owner is unavailable to handle the situation immediately.

• Misconception 4: Vehicle information is not critical to the towing process.
  

  Some might underestimate the importance of specifying vehicle details on the Tow Authorization form. However, details such as the year, make, model, type, color, VIN number, and license plate information are crucial for properly identifying the vehicle in question. This information helps prevent errors and ensures that the correct vehicle is towed.

• Misconception 5: Damage to the vehicle during towing is not the responsibility of the tow company.
  

  A common misconception is that any damage incurred during the tow is not a concern for the tow company. Yet, the Tow Authorization form typically includes a section for listing pre-existing damage to the vehicle. This is an essential step for accountability, making it easier to determine if any new damage occurred during the tow process and who is responsible for it.

Understanding these misconceptions can demystify the tow authorization process, ensuring vehicles are towed legally and efficiently from private property. Proper use of the Tow Authorization form protects the rights of property owners while also respecting those of vehicle owners.

Understanding the process and implications of filling out a Tow Authorization form is essential for private property owners, law enforcement officers, and towing companies. It's a legal tool that facilitates the removal of unauthorized or abandoned vehicles from private property. The following key takeaways highlight the crucial aspects of this process:

• Complete Information is Crucial: Ensure all sections of the form are filled out comprehensively. This includes the date, time, towing company's details, reasons for towing, and specific vehicle information. Incomplete forms may lead to procedural delays or legal challenges.
• Authorization Must Be Legitimate: The form must be authorized by either law enforcement officers or the private property owner/agent. This authority confirms the legitimacy of the tow and protects all parties involved.
• Clarity on Reason for Tow: Clearly state the reason for the removal of the vehicle. Common reasons include the vehicle being abandoned or illegally parked. This detail is crucial for legal compliance and potentially defending the action if disputed.
• Duration Vehicle Has Been on Property: Mentioning how long the vehicle has been left on the property before towing is required. This can be vital under some state laws that specify a minimum timeframe before a vehicle can be considered abandoned.
• Accurate Vehicle Information: Recording accurate and detailed vehicle information, including the year, make, model, type, color, VIN number, and license details, is essential. This information aids in identifying the vehicle, informing the owner, and addressing any claims or disputes.
• Document Vehicle Condition: Listing existing damage to the vehicle before towing avoids disputes over damage claims. This documentation protects the towing company from liability for pre-existing conditions.
• Legal Compliance: Familiarize yourself with the relevant local and state laws regarding vehicle towing and impoundment. For instance, the form mentions NMPRC Rule 18.3.12.14 and NMSA 1978, §66-1-4.1 relating to abandoned vehicles. Compliance is essential to ensure the towing operation is lawful.
• Keep Records: Maintain a copy of the filled-out Tow Authorization form and any other relevant documentation. These records are important if the tow is contested or if there is a need to prove the legality of the tow in the future.

If the Tow Authorization form is correctly utilized, it streamlines the process of removing unauthorized or abandoned vehicles from private property while ensuring all actions are within legal boundaries. It's a protective measure for the property owners and towing companies, mitigating potential legal issues and fostering a straightforward resolution for these situations.