The Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles is taking a closer look at how towing companies handle unclaimed vehicles. There’s a major reform proposal on the table.
DMV Commissioner Tony Guerrera wants to simplify the process for towing operators. At the same time, he says consumer protections need to stay in place.
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Under his plan, all vehicles would be sold through public auctions after a standard 30-day waiting period. This would replace the current tiered timeline based on vehicle value.
The debate has sparked sharp differences between consumer advocates, towing company owners, and legal experts. It’s become a key issue for towns and cities across Connecticut.
Proposed Changes to Unclaimed Vehicle Sales
The main goal of Guerrera’s plan is to streamline the sale of unclaimed cars. Tow companies wouldn’t need to assign values to vehicles before starting the sale process anymore.
This removes a step that people in the industry often call both cumbersome and inaccurate. Now, every unclaimed vehicle—no matter the make, model, or condition—could be sold after 30 days.
End of Private Auctions
One of the biggest proposed changes is a complete ban on private vehicle auctions. Guerrera wants all sales to be conducted through public auctions to boost transparency.
The idea is to let any interested buyer have a shot at bidding. Supporters hope this prevents closed-door deals that critics say can undervalue vehicles and leave former owners at a loss.
Current Law vs. Planned Reform
Right now, Connecticut law lets towing companies sell unclaimed cars after just 15 days if they’re valued under $1,500. If they’re worth more, the wait is 45 days.
Guerrera’s plan shifts to a uniform 30-day waiting period for every vehicle. He believes this will create consistency for operations in cities like Hartford, Bridgeport, New Haven, and Stamford.
Concerns from Consumer Advocates
Consumer protection groups say the proposal doesn’t go far enough. They’re worried that, without stronger oversight, undervaluation could still happen—hurting owners in towns like Norwalk and Waterbury.
Attorney Raphael Podolsky has warned that the new system could mean minimal financial returns to both vehicle owners and the state treasury.
Industry Perspective on Reform
Towing companies from New Britain to Middletown support a faster, simpler process. They say storage fees and towing costs pile up quickly, so a 30-day rule would help them recover expenses without extra delays.
Divergent Views on Auctions
Not everyone buys the idea that public auctions will make things fairer. Some folks dismiss them as a “charade,” pointing to low attendance and limited bidding.
They claim vehicles often sell for less than they might in other formats, and that affects owners from Torrington to Danbury.
The Path to Consensus
Guerrera’s working group was formed under the upcoming 2025 towing reform law. They’re supposed to deliver detailed recommendations to lawmakers by February 1.
The group brings together legal experts, consumer advocates, and towing operators. Their job is to find some middle ground that works for Connecticut communities.
Potential Legislative Action
The Commissioner has warned that if this group can’t agree on a plan, the legislature might step in with less favorable measures. In other words, consensus isn’t just ideal—it’s essential if anyone wants to avoid a one-size-fits-all solution that nobody really likes.
Key Takeaways for Connecticut Drivers
If you live in Greenwich, West Hartford, or Manchester, these towing reforms might bring clearer timelines and steps for getting your car back. Anyone who could get towed—whether for parking mistakes, leaving a car too long, or something else—should probably keep an eye on these changes.
- Uniform 30-day waiting period before sale
- Elimination of vehicle valuation requirement
- Ban on private auctions; all sales must be public
- Debate over fairness and effectiveness of public auction system
- Deadline for working group recommendations: February 1, 2025
- Possible legislative action if consensus is not reached
Here is the source article for this story: Idea pitched for compromise between CT towing companies and consumers. It’s ‘a predicament’
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