Powder Mill Towing

Review: On May 16 (around 9:00pm) our Car broke down in the [redacted] on Route 46/202 and would not move. The weather was very stormy and thunders/lightening was going on. While the storm was still in progress, we left the lot so we can get back in the morning to see what the problem was with the car. Next morning I called Towing company to tow the car to the repair shop. After driving around for 15-20 mins, with no signs of car, I went around and asked a store owner if they knew what could have happened to a car that was broken down. They told me that Powder Mill Towing tows the cars that stay overnight. I looked around and did not see any sign stating such action. I googled the the name and then called Power Mill Towing and when inquired, they were ONLY 0.4 MILE from the place where we left car. I drove to their lot/business and they confirmed they had the car and demanded $219.55 that included $150 for TOWING DISTANCE OF 0.4 MILE. I objected to it to be extremely unfair to charge $150 for just 0.4Mile of towing and they stated that "You must pay. We don't care as we have approval from [redacted] Police Department". I called the police department and they stated that I should file a complain to Revdex.com as this is not their jurisdiction.Desired Settlement: I would like BB to investigate the prices charged by Powder Mill Towing company from a shopping Mall parking lot that is ONLY 0.4Mile. Who authorized this rate? To me, even if they have right or contract to town cars, charging $150 for just only 0.4 mile is beyond unreasonable and must be corrected. I have no problem with their overnight charges of $35/night. Revdex.com should investigate who approved these rates and if no one approved, require Powder Mill Towing to refund all people who they charged this excessive amount.

Business

Response:

We are contracted by the owner of said shopping center. When we receive a phone call from the owner or their representative or any member of the public for vehicles left over night, etc. we are required as per our contract to remove said vehicle. The complainant admits to parking and leaving his/her vehicle on the above named premises overnight. We received a call to remove said car from their property. We are required by the State of New Jersey to post at each entrance and exit of said shopping center signage that complies with the State. There are signs at each entrance/exit that clearly state what parking rules are set forth by the owner of the shopping center and the penalties attached for not adhering to those rules. Also on the sign is the rates that the State of New Jersey dictates we charge. We don't make up these charges, they are guided by the State of New Jersey under the Predatory Tow Act. On the sign is also a number for the Consumer Affairs Department with their phone number. The consumer may call at any time to verify the rates we charge are within guidelines of said Act. There is no refund due to this consumer as he/she admits to leaving his/her vehicle on the above mentioned property overnight which is a violation of the shopping center. The consumer was charged the amount allowed as guided by the State of New Jersey.