Bill > AB987

This bill amends two sections of the California Vehicle Code to expand protections for vehicle owners and insurers regarding towing and storage fees. The legislation specifically adds two new categories of fees that are considered presumptively unreasonable: storage fees charged for state holidays that exceed the standard daily storage rate, and towing fees incurred when a law enforcement officer directs a tow truck operator to remove a vehicle during a state or local emergency to clear a roadway for emergency vehicles. The bill provides liability protection for tow truck operators who remove vehicles in emergency situations, stipulating that they cannot be held civilly liable for property damage if they act in good faith, unless they are found to have committed gross negligence. Additionally, the bill maintains existing provisions that limit storage fees during the first 15 days of vehicle possession and requires that all towing and storage fees be reasonable. The amendments apply to both individual vehicle owners and insurers, ensuring that excessive or unnecessary fees cannot be charged during emergency situations or on state holidays, thereby protecting consumers from unexpected and potentially high storage and towing costs.

Budget and Finance, Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB987