# Towing Rules Are Annoyingly Complicated

> How to stop your car from being towed varies by state and situation.
- Title: Towing Rules Are Annoyingly Complicated · Jalopnik | Shortify
- Summary: How to stop your car from being towed varies by state and situation. Catching a tow truck before it leaves can save money in some states but requires knowing…
- Keywords: towing, state laws, drop fee, private property towing, predatory towing, nfl, us pirg, cars, culture, Rules, Annoyingly, Complicated
- Source: Jalopnik — https://jalopnik.com/2279751/rules-stopping-car-from-being-towed-complicated
- Author: Josh West
- Published: 2026-10-11T12:45:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: towing, state laws, drop fee, private property towing, predatory towing, nfl, us pirg, cars, culture
## Towing laws vary by state
Towing rules change from one state to another, making it hard to know when you can stop a tow.
## 89% increase in predatory towing claims
The National Insurance Crime Bureau reported an 89% increase in claims of predatory towing from 2022 to 2024.
## Texas towing rules
In Texas, if the tow truck hasn't finished connecting to your vehicle, it must release your car without charge.
## Drop fee in Texas
If your car is fully hooked up but still in the parking lot, the tow company may charge a drop fee.
## Massachusetts towing rules
In Massachusetts, showing up before a private-property tow completes may cost half the towing fee.
## Police vs private towing
State police initiated tows follow different rules than private-property tows.
## How to find your state's rules
The U.S. PIRG Education Fund has a state-by-state guide on towing practices for each state.
## Check local government for details
You may need to check city or county websites for more specific towing rules.
## Key takeaway

Catching a tow truck before it leaves can save money in some states but requires knowing local rules.