In Illinois, towing companies are allowed to keep your property in exchange for payment. They can also sell your vehicle on a mechanics lien foreclosure as long as they follow the lien process strictly as dictated by the Illinois Vehicle Code. To get out of the vehicle, you can pay the towing company the amount they are asking for. If you do not have the money to pay, you can try to negotiate with the towing company. You may be able to get them to reduce the amount they are asking for or to let you make payments. If you are unable to pay, you can file a complaint with the Illinois Commerce Commission. The ICC is the state agency that regulates towing companies. They can investigate your complaint and take action against the towing company if they have violated the law.
Here are some additional things you can do to get out of a vehicle that has been towed:
- Contact your insurance company. Your insurance company may be able to help you pay for the towing fees.
- Contact a lawyer. A lawyer can help you negotiate with the towing company or represent you in court if necessary.
- Check if they are charging extra for storing your vehicle. If the towing company is charging you for storage, make sure the extra charge is reasonable and that you are only paying for the days that your vehicle has actually been stored at their facility.
