CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA — Donald Hicklin Jr. was parked at a lot on Sunset Road in Charlotte during a historic snowstorm when his semi-truck was towed for staying 30 minutes past the free parking limit. The bill that came back was $9,000.
The itemized charges included $7,000 for the impound and tow, $500 for storage, and $1,500 in administrative fees. Hicklin said the company charged separately to hook up to the truck, to disconnect from it, and to tow it to the impound lot. The posted signs at the lot showed different price points than what he was ultimately billed.
“I was floored. I was at a loss for words,” Hicklin said. “Oh, it’s beyond excessive. It’s predatory! They just take advantage of the laws.”
He is right that the law allows it. North Carolina does not set maximum allowable rates for nonconsensual private property towing, leaving companies free to set their own prices. According to the American Trucking Associations, only 12 states set maximum heavy-duty tow rates for nonconsensual private property tows. North Carolina is not one of them.
The situation has drawn the attention of Charlotte City Councilwoman At-Large Dimple Ajmera, who said she has received multiple complaints about local towing practices from constituents.
“Yes, you have a right as a property owner, but it does not give anyone the right to take advantage of our community,” Ajmera said.
She is working with city staff to track companies that repeatedly charge excessive rates and refer them to the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office. Increasing financial penalties for violations is also on the table.
Drivers who pursue legal action in cases like this often cite unfair or deceptive trade practices statutes. In cases where a plaintiff prevails, court awards can be tripled under applicable law.
Interviews courtesy of local media.
📸 Image(s) used under fair use for news reporting.
