In the May 8 roundtable hosted by Hawkeye Claims, industry professionals came together to confront one of the most frustrating and under-regulated areas in insurance and fleet management: non-consensual towing and vehicle storage. The discussion illuminated a national issue that’s costing claimants and insurers time, money, and sanity.

The Problem: A Patchwork of State Laws

Towing and storage laws vary dramatically across the U.S. In some states, like Colorado and Nevada, there are caps on daily fees and consumer protections. In others—Arizona was notably called out—oversight is practically nonexistent. Without uniformity, adjusters and fleet managers are left to navigate a maze of local ordinances, inconsistent enforcement, and excessive charges.

Real-World Impact

The team shared numerous cases, including:

• $10,000+ tow bills reduced only after legal intervention.

• Vehicles held hostage by procedural red tape, especially across state lines.

• Overbilling for rotator use and traffic control — with hourly rates inflated beyond reason.

• Tow yards refusing vehicle access or personal item retrieval outside narrow hours.

These aren’t just billing disputes — they’re operational delays and customer service nightmares.

Non-Consensual Towing: A Legal Gray Zone

Charlie Caravella of Hawkeye Claims explained the difference between consensual and non-consensual tows — the latter being particularly problematic when initiated by police or third parties without the vehicle owner’s involvement. These tows often lead to:

• Immediate storage accruals.

• No initial notice to insureds or fleet managers.

• Difficulty proving ownership or getting access.

In some states, recovery requires setting a bond, navigating local hearings, or even police escorts.

Storage Costs and Equipment Charges

Towing companies argue that their fees reflect real equipment costs — such as maintaining expensive rotators that may only be used a few times a year. While understandable from a business perspective, this often clashes with what insurance will reasonably pay.

Negotiation, documentation (especially photo evidence), and local knowledge are key. But most importantly, adjusters need clear frameworks to dispute overcharges — and currently, those frameworks vary wildly.

Call for Federal Oversight

The group unanimously agreed: the time for federal regulation is now. The American Car Rental Association (ACRA) is already pushing for progress on Capitol Hill. Until then, collaboration and shared knowledge are our best defense.

What Can You Do Now?

1. Know your state — or partner with someone who does. Regulations vary, and missing a local requirement can cost you.

2. Document everything — especially equipment used, labor time, and storage conditions.

3. Challenge excessive charges — many states allow “payment under protest” or bond postings to release a vehicle while disputing costs.

4. Stay informed — join our next roundtable or connect with industry groups pushing for reform.

Need Help Navigating Towing Disputes?

At Hawkeye Claims, we specialize in fleet subrogation and recovery — including challenging excessive towing and storage charges. Our team is actively tracking state-level changes and working with adjusters across the country to contain costs, speed up releases, and recover losses.

📞 Contact us today to discuss your specific case or fleet policy — and take back control of the claim.