What to Do When Your Semitrailer is Illegally Towed and Sold: Legal Remedies in Florida

Imagine this scenario: you’re a dedicated truck driver, hauling goods across Florida in your trusted semi-trailer. One day, you return to where you parked your vehicle, only to find it missing. After frantic inquiries, you discover that your semitrailer has been towed away and even worse, illegally sold off by an unscrupulous towing company. The shock and frustration of such an event can be overwhelming, but rest assured, there are legal remedies available to protect your rights in Florida.

Understanding the Predicament: Illegal Towing & Sale

Illegal towing and the subsequent sale of semitrailers is a distressingly common issue in Florida. Predatory towing companies often seize vehicles under dubious circumstances, exploiting loopholes or disregarding proper procedures. This can leave owners grappling with hefty costs, lost time, and an unjust loss of their valuable asset.

Knowing Your Rights: Legal Framework in Florida

In response to such abuses, Florida has established clear legal protections for vehicle owners, including those who own semitrailers. Understanding these rights is crucial for asserting your legal remedies effectively.

1. The Importance of Immediate Action

Upon discovering that your semitrailer has been towed and potentially sold illegally, prompt action is essential. Contacting a qualified attorney specializing in towing laws can provide immediate guidance and support. They can assess the situation, review pertinent documentation, and outline your legal options moving forward.

2. Understanding Florida’s Towing Laws

Florida law mandates that towing companies adhere to strict guidelines when towing and selling vehicles. These include maintaining transparent fee schedules, providing detailed invoices, and offering multiple payment options. Any deviation from these regulations may constitute grounds for legal action.

3. Legal Remedies Available

If your semitrailer has been unlawfully towed and sold, several legal remedies may be pursued:

Demand for Restitution: Asserting your right to compensation for damages incurred as a result of the illegal towing and sale.

Legal Challenge: Initiating legal proceedings against the towing company for violations of Florida’s towing laws and seeking the return of your semitrailer or fair compensation.

Negotiation and Settlement: Engaging in negotiations with the towing company, facilitated by legal counsel, to reach a mutually agreeable resolution.

4. Working with an Experienced Attorney

Navigating the complexities of towing laws and pursuing legal remedies can be daunting without professional assistance. An experienced attorney specializing in towing disputes can advocate on your behalf, safeguard your rights, and pursue the best possible outcome.

Conclusion

Dealing with the illegal towing and sale of your semitrailer is undoubtedly a challenging ordeal. However, by understanding your rights under Florida law and enlisting the support of one of our knowledgeable attorneys, you can assertively pursue legal remedies and reclaim justice. 

For legal help with the illegal towing and/or selling of a vehicle, contact one of our experienced attorneys at 305-570-2208. You can also email our lead attorney Eduardo directly at eduardo@ayalalawpa.com.  

We at Ayala Law PA are passionate about helping those in legal need, so please don’t hesitate to schedule a case evaluation with us online here. 

You can also download our free legal guide on combating the illegal towing and selling of your vehicle, here. 

[The opinions in this blog are not intended to be legal advice. You should consult with an attorney about the particulars of your case].