New Ohio Towing Fairness Law Takes Effect in April

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has signed a law aimed at resolving disputes regarding towing costs for commercial vehicles, effective April 9. This legislation creates a legal framework allowing owners of towed vehicles or their representatives to dispute charges from towing companies or storage facilities. The law stipulates that if there is a billing disagreement, the vehicle owner must pay the undisputed amount and then post a bond for the disputed charges, which will be evaluated by a judge. Sponsored by state Senator Al Cutrona, the law has garnered bipartisan support and aims to provide a streamlined process for managing towing disputes while ensuring that the towing industry is compensated for its services. The measure addresses issues identified by the Ohio Trucking Association (OTA) and towing associations, seeking to balance the need for swift towing services after accidents with the concerns of truck operators over potentially excessive fees. Industry representatives emphasized that the new law provides clarity and fairness, aiming to facilitate quicker resolution of disputes without significantly delaying cargo transport. The measure is expected to keep commerce moving efficiently and enhance safety on highways by ensuring timely removal of vehicles involved in accidents. From a transportation perspective, this law represents a critical step toward addressing a persistent friction point between trucking companies and towing services, which can hinder both vehicle recovery and delivery operations. It reflects a growing recognition of the need for systematic frameworks that balance the rights and responsibilities of all involved in the transportation ecosystem. By fostering a more organized approach to dispute resolution, the legislation may also encourage better business practices and transparency within the towing industry, ultimately benefiting broader transportation logistics.