04/11/2026
We run into this problem now and again, which needs to be addressed.
The problem we have is who exactly gets to make decisions about moving, handling, and retrieving items from a vehicle in our possession. Missouri law is quite clear on the matter… Only the registered owner or designated representative may make decisions or retrieve items from a vehicle in a tow company’s possession. Anybody Towing uses a notarized statement from the registered owner to designate a representative to act on their behalf if the owner cannot be present.
A few days ago, we picked up a vehicle from an accident scene. As of yet, we have heard nothing from the owner. However, yesterday we had someone who was not the owner come visit and try to remove items from the vehicle. Needless to say, his person was not entirely happy with our decision to refuse access to the vehicle, but it is not our place to hand out items from other people’s vehicles to random people.
This also reminds us that a few years ago, another person was unhappy with our refusal to release and move a vehicle we were in possession of. In this case, a good friend and customer of ours wrecked their vehicle. We were in almost daily contact with that person regarding his plans for proceeding with the vehicle. Then another person (not an insurance representative, not a body shop, just a random person) called out of the blue and wanted the vehicle moved to a body shop… no kidding. Of course, we said no… To this day, this person is still mad at us for refusing his request and wanting to follow state law.
The process of moving a wrecked vehicle is quite clear. 1) The owner/driver gets to choose the towing company of his/her choice. 2) Once the towing company arrives, the towing company is under the direction of law enforcement till they are done with the vehicle, and the safety of the motoring public is upheld. 3) From that point on, the towing company works for the owner or designated representative of the vehicle till the vehicle is released back to the owner or released to the body shop/insurance company.
Finally, we understand that some other tow companies do not follow state law in this matter. However, we respect and appreciate the trust people place in us, and we will not violate that trust.
Need a tow? Let someone that will respect your trust to move your vehicle... Don't get Totally Confused, “Oh, Just Call ANYBODY!”
573-759-2221 Dixon | 573-336-0015 St Robert | 573-774-6682 Waynesville
