Tow Truck Drivers in Philadelphia Required to Provide Photo Evidence of ViolationsTow Truck Drivers in Philadelphia Required to Provide Photo Evidence of Violations In an effort to enhance accountability, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has enacted Act 43, mandating tow truck drivers in Philadelphia to supply photographic proof of violations before towing or hauling away vehicles. Sponsored by state Representative Jose Giral, the legislation requires drivers to capture images displaying the vehicle’s license plate, evidence of the offense committed, and posted signage prohibiting stopping, standing, or parking. These images must be provided to vehicle owners free of charge upon retrieval. “This commonsense measure promotes greater transparency and accountability,” said Representative Giral. “It benefits all parties involved, ensuring fairness for vehicle owners, legal proceedings, and tow companies.” The law aims to facilitate appeals against unreasonable tows and associated expenses for owners. It takes effect 60 days after the governor’s signature.
In a bid to bring more accountability to tow truck drivers in the city of Philadelphia, Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro signed a bill Monday requiring them to provide photo evidence of violations.
The bill, known as Act 43 and introduced by Pennsylvania state Rep. Jose Giral, D-Phila., would require tow truck drivers to provide photographic evidence of a violation before they can tow or haul away a vehicle.
“I am pleased to see this commonsense measure enacted into law,” Giral said in a statement shortly after the bill was signed into law. “This will benefit everyone involved, the courts, drivers and towing companies, and will bring greater accountability and transparency to our city.”
According to the wording of the law, whenever a vehicle is towed, the tow truck driver must collect photographic evidence showing the vehicle’s license plate number, evidence that an offense has been committed, and any posted signs or information indicating that stopping, standing or parking is prohibited at that location.
A copy of the photographic evidence will then be provided to the vehicle owner free of charge when they retrieve the towed vehicle.
Giral said the provision now makes it easier for people whose vehicles are towed to appeal any unreasonable towing and avoid the associated costs.
The bill will take effect 60 days after it is signed by the governor.
