Car towed? Which towing costs you have to pay
Your car is gone, towed away? Whether from private property or in public traffic: towing can be lawful, but you only have to bear the reasonable, actually necessary costs. You can challenge excessive demands.
Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:
Check / reclaim the costs →Your chances of getting your money back
What you should do now
- 1
1. Locate the vehicle
Ask the police/public order office (public space) or the property owner/company (private ground) for the location and towing firm.
- 2
2. Demand its return
You have a right to have it handed over step by step against payment of the justified costs. Ask for a detailed receipt.
- 3
3. Check the costs
Are the towing and storage costs reasonable? You can challenge excessive items.
- 4
4. Reclaim the excess
If needed, pay under reservation and demand the excessive portion back in writing.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay every towing demand?
No, only the necessary and reasonable costs. You do not have to accept excessive flat rates or disproportionate storage fees. You can pay under reservation to get your car and reclaim the excessive part.
Do I only get my car back against payment?
The return is usually made step by step against payment of the justified costs. Ask for a detailed breakdown. If you consider parts of it excessive, pay under reservation and then take action against the excessive portion.
Take action now
We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.
General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.