Kansas City’s Predatory Towing Problem: What Drivers Need to Know

Imagine surviving a serious car accident in Kansas City, only to discover that your vehicle has been towed before you even receive medical care. Unfortunately, this scenario is more common than many realize. Predatory towing has become a growing problem in Kansas City, with drivers facing excessive fees, aggressive removals, and unethical practices—often at the worst possible time.

At Kendall Law Group, we represent individuals who have suffered life-altering injuries in catastrophic car, truck, and motorcycle accidents. We’ve seen firsthand how predatory towing adds unnecessary stress for victims already struggling with serious injuries, insurance battles, and vehicle damage.

Whether you’ve been in an accident or simply want to protect yourself, here’s what every Kansas City driver needs to know about predatory towing and how to avoid becoming a victim.

What Is Predatory Towing?

Predatory towing occurs when companies tow vehicles under questionable circumstances, often without proper notice, justification, or authorization. While towing is necessary for illegally parked or abandoned cars, some companies exploit vague rules to overcharge and inconvenience drivers.

A recent FOX4KC report revealed the shady tactics used by some Kansas City tow operators, including:

✅ Towing legally parked vehicles without proper warning.
✅ Removing cars from accident scenes prematurely, before drivers can retrieve belongings or notify their insurance.
✅ Charging excessive storage and release fees, far beyond reasonable rates.
✅ Making it difficult to locate or retrieve towed vehicles, delaying access to important documents and personal property.

How Predatory Towing Affects Auto Accident Victims

After a serious car crash, the last thing an injured driver needs is a fight with a towing company. Unfortunately, some Kansas City tow operators:

🚨 Tow vehicles from accident scenes without driver consent, even before emergency responders determine the need.
💰 Charge excessive impound fees that insurance may not cover, leaving accident victims with unexpected expenses.
⏳ Delay access to vehicles, preventing drivers from retrieving personal belongings, medical supplies, or insurance paperwork.
🚗 Move vehicles to undisclosed or distant lots, forcing families to track down their car while dealing with medical care and legal matters.

How to Protect Your Car from Predatory Towing in Kansas City

While Kansas City officials are working on stronger regulations to curb these practices, drivers must take steps to protect themselves.

After an Auto Accident, Know Who Is Towing Your Car

✅ What to do:
– Ask police officers or emergency responders if towing is necessary.
– If a tow truck arrives unexpectedly, confirm that it was dispatched by law enforcement or your insurance company.
– Take a photo of the tow truck, license plate, and driver information before your vehicle is taken.

Understand Your Rights Before Paying Any Fees

✅ What to do:
– Ask for a written breakdown of all fees before making any payments.
– Check local towing laws—Kansas City has limits on what companies can charge.
– If you suspect an unfair tow, file a complaint with the Missouri Attorney General’s Office.

If Possible, Move Your Car to a Safe Spot After a Crash

✅ What to do:
– If your injuries allow, move your car to a safe, legal location before stepping away.
– Call your insurance company first—they may cover towing costs or recommend a trusted company.

Be Cautious of Private Parking Lots

✅ What to do:
– Look for clear towing warnings before leaving your car.
– Take a quick photo of parking signs in case you need proof later.

If Your Car Gets Towed, Call the Police First

Kansas City requires towing companies to report towed vehicles within 30 minutes. If your car is missing, it may have been towed—not stolen.

📞 Kansas City Police Department Non-Emergency Line: (816) 234-5111

✅ What to do:
– Call the police to confirm your car’s location.
– Do not pay any fees until you confirm your car was legally towed.
– If you believe you were wrongfully towed, document everything and consider seeking legal help.

What Kansas City Drivers Need to Know About Tow Truck Scams

Kansas City officials are working to regulate predatory towing, but scams and unethical practices still happen. Common red flags include:

🚩 Unmarked or unofficial tow trucks removing vehicles without clear reason.
🚩 Tow truck drivers demanding cash payments before releasing a car.
🚩 Companies refusing to disclose the vehicle’s storage location after towing it.

If you experience any of these, report the tow company immediately to local authorities.

Kansas City’s guidelines on towing are detailed in the city’s Code of Ordinances, specifically under Chapter 76, Article III – Tow Vehicles. This section outlines regulations governing towing practices, including permissible fees and operational standards for towing companies. For instance, Section 76-422 addresses towing and storage fees, stipulating that it’s unlawful for any person to charge fees exceeding the established limits.

Additionally, the Kansas City Police Department has established procedures for the towing and protective custody of vehicles, which are documented in their policy manual. These procedures provide guidelines for when and how vehicles may be towed, ensuring compliance with city ordinances and state laws.

For practical information, such as retrieving a towed vehicle or reporting an abandoned vehicle, the city’s official website offers resources and contact details. The Tow Services page provides insights into operating hours, required documentation for vehicle retrieval, and procedures for reporting improperly towed vehicles.

By consulting these resources, residents and visitors can familiarize themselves with Kansas City’s towing regulations and understand their rights and responsibilities concerning vehicle towing.

Final Thoughts: Protect Yourself on the Road

Being involved in a catastrophic car accident is already a life-changing event. Predatory towing shouldn’t make it worse. By knowing your rights, documenting everything, and taking preventive steps, you can avoid unnecessary towing costs and frustration.

Kansas City Auto Accident Injury Trial Lawyers

At Kendall Law Group, we fight for Kansas City drivers who have suffered catastrophic injuries in car, truck, and motorcycle accidents. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a crash, we are here to help you navigate the legal process, deal with insurance companies, and seek the compensation you deserve.

📞 Call Kendall Law Group today at (816) 531-3100 for a free consultation. Let us handle the legal battles so you can focus on healing.

Stay informed. Stay protected. Always know your rights on the road.