Create new causes of action re:vehicles towed after an accident
Impact
The introduction of SB258 is anticipated to significantly impact the legal landscape surrounding vehicle recovery and towing practices in Ohio. By allowing owners to dispute towing and storage fees legally, the bill aims to ensure fair invoicing practices among towing services and storage facilities. Moreover, the bill includes provisions that require vehicle owners to pay any undisputed amounts while allowing for the posting of bonds for disputed charges, enabling efficient resolution of claims without undue delay in the return of vehicles post-accident.
Summary
Senate Bill 258, introduced by Senator Wilkin, seeks to amend the Ohio Revised Code by enacting section 4513.71, which creates new legal avenues for motor vehicle owners in relation to vehicles that have been towed post-accident. This bill enables vehicle owners to initiate civil actions against towing services or storage facilities for recovering their vehicles or for objecting to the fees charged for towing and storage. The bill is designed to enhance consumer rights by facilitating legal recourse in instances where vehicle owners face disputes over towing charges that they deem excessive or unreasonable.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding SB258 may arise from the towing industry's perspective, as the bill provides motor vehicle owners broad rights to challenge towing fees in court. Towing companies may argue that the bill could lead to increased litigation and potential financial strain from delayed payments, especially from owners who may not adhere to statutory guidelines within the proposed timeline for disputes. The discussion may also extend to the adequacy of current consumer protection regulations and whether they sufficiently address the challenges faced by consumers in interactions with towing services.
Legal_provisions
SB258 outlines specific legal steps that can be taken by vehicle owners, including actions against the towing service for unreasonable charges. It is essential that the courts determine whether charged amounts are fair, thereby providing a mechanism for vehicle owners to seek refunds or reduced charges based on judicial findings. This development could lead to an uptick in disputes brought forth in municipal or county courts, aimed at ensuring accountability and fairness in the towing process.