Hampton, Virginia Raises Police-Ordered Towing Rates After 20 Years

Virginia's Hampton City Council has approved an increase in police-ordered towing rates, raising the fee from $125 to $210, the first adjustment in 20 years.

Local towing company owners say the increase is overdue, citing soaring costs for fuel, insurance, equipment and labor.

“It’s been a long time coming,” said Robert Oates, owner of Pops Towing Company, who has more than 30 years of industry experience.

Oates noted that operating expenses have climbed significantly, with diesel fuel approaching $7 per gallon and equipment and insurance costs rising sharply.

Chris Russo, co-owner of Guardian Towing and Recovery, said companies must also cover driver wages, vehicle storage and Department of Motor Vehicles paperwork. Police-ordered calls require operators to respond within 30 minutes, often forcing them to interrupt other work.

Tow owners Robert Oates and Chris Russo speak with news reporter from 13 NewsNow about the necessity of raising their towing rates.

The new rates also affect private vehicle tows, storage fees and nighttime towing.

Mayor Jimmy Gray said the city will review rates annually. The increase takes effect immediately.

Towing operators hope to continue working with Hampton’s Towing Advisory Committee to ensure rates reflect the actual costs of providing essential roadside services.

Source: https://www.13newsnow.com