My car got towed: how to find it and get it back

1. Look for signs first

• Look around for a tow-away sign. On private lots these signs usually give the towing company's name and phone number.
• Ask the property manager, a security guard or the nearby businesses. They often know who tows from that lot.
• Check whether you were in a spot with a time limit, a permit requirement or a tow-away zone.

2. Call the police non-emergency line

In Florida, a company that tows a car from private property has to tell local police where it took the car. So the non-emergency number of the city police department or the sheriff's office can usually tell you whether your car was towed, and where it is. If they have no record of a tow, ask how to report the car stolen. Use 911 only for emergencies.

3. Call the towing company

• Ask where the car is, the hours, what payment they take and what to bring. Usually that's a photo ID and proof the car is yours, such as the registration or title, and sometimes proof of insurance.
• Ask for the total, itemized, before you pay.
• Check the car for damage before you leave and take photos, including the lot and the receipt.
• If you think the tow was wrong, you may be able to dispute it afterwards. Keep every receipt, photo and the sign's details.

4. Get the car home

If the car can't be driven, or you'd rather not drive it right away, book a ZeroTow tow from the lot to home or to a shop. Open the app, put the pin on the lot, choose the drop-off and see the full price before you confirm. Say in the note for the driver that it's a tow or storage lot. Some lots only release a car to the owner or to someone with the owner's written permission, so ask the lot what the driver needs to bring.

Avoid it next time

• Read the signs before you leave the car, including the small print about permits and hours.
• Take a photo of your parking spot and any sign next to it.
• If you're unsure, pay for parking you know is safe.

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