What Can Cause a Vehicle to Be Towed in Ohio?

In Ohio, there are a variety of reasons why a vehicle might be towed. Whether you’ve parked in the wrong spot, violated a traffic law, or experienced a vehicle breakdown, understanding the common causes of towing can help you avoid potential issues. At Newdawn Towing & Recovery LLC in Cincinnati, OH, we provide professional towing services and want to inform you about what can lead to your vehicle being towed in Ohio.

1. Parking Violations

One of the most common reasons for towing is parking in unauthorized areas. Some examples of parking violations that may result in towing include:

Parking in a No-Parking Zone: If you park in an area marked as a no-parking zone, your vehicle may be towed.

Blocking Fire Hydrants or Driveways: Parking in front of a fire hydrant or blocking access to a driveway can result in immediate towing.

Parking in Handicapped Spaces: If you park in a designated handicapped space without the proper permit, your vehicle is subject to towing.

Overstaying Time Limits: Some areas have restricted parking with time limits. Exceeding these limits can lead to your vehicle being towed.

2. Traffic Violations

Towing can also result from certain traffic violations. If a vehicle is deemed unsafe or is being operated illegally, law enforcement may arrange for it to be towed. Common reasons include:

Driving Without a Valid License: If you’re caught driving without a valid license, your vehicle may be towed on the spot.

Expired Registration: Operating a vehicle with an expired registration is illegal in Ohio and can result in your vehicle being impounded.

DUI/Impaired Driving: If you’re arrested for driving under the influence, law enforcement may tow your vehicle as part of the procedure.

3. Abandoned Vehicles

Ohio law allows for the towing of abandoned vehicles under certain circumstances. A vehicle is considered abandoned if it has been left unattended for an extended period, especially on public property. This can happen if:

The Vehicle Is Left on Public Property for Over 48 Hours: If a vehicle is abandoned on a public road, it may be towed after 48 hours.

The Vehicle Is Abandoned on Private Property Without Permission: Property owners have the right to request the removal of a vehicle that has been abandoned without their consent.

4. Accidents and Breakdowns

In the event of an accident or a mechanical breakdown, your vehicle may need to be towed for safety reasons or to clear the roadway. Towing may occur in situations such as:

Post-Accident Towing: If your vehicle is involved in a collision and cannot be safely driven, it will likely be towed to a repair facility or impound lot.

Breakdowns on Busy Roads: Vehicles that break down on highways or busy roads may be towed to ensure the flow of traffic and avoid potential hazards.

5. Illegally Parked or Trespassing Vehicles on Private Property

In Ohio, property owners have the right to tow vehicles that are parked illegally or without permission on their property. However, they must follow certain legal requirements, such as:

Posting Signs: Property owners must post signs indicating that unauthorized vehicles will be towed.

Contacting Authorities: The tow company must notify law enforcement before removing a vehicle from private property to avoid disputes.

6. Snow Emergencies

In some cases, vehicles may be towed during snow emergencies. When heavy snowfalls make road conditions hazardous, local governments may declare a snow emergency. During this time:

Vehicles Parked on Emergency Routes May Be Towed: If your vehicle is parked on a designated snow emergency route, it may be towed to ensure roads are clear for plowing.

How to Avoid Having Your Vehicle Towed

To avoid having your vehicle towed in Ohio, always follow posted parking signs, maintain valid registration and licensing, and ensure your vehicle is parked in legal and safe areas. Additionally, if you experience a breakdown, make sure to arrange for towing services promptly to avoid your vehicle being removed by law enforcement.

Conclusion

Towing in Ohio can occur for various reasons, from parking violations and traffic offenses to accidents and abandoned vehicles. At Newdawn Towing & Recovery LLC, we’re committed to providing professional towing services and helping drivers stay informed. If you find yourself in need of towing in Cincinnati or surrounding areas, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for assistance.