Default rule and exceptions
Under California Vehicle Code 22658, the owner of a vehicle removed from private property may recover for damage from an intentional or negligent act of a person causing the removal of, or removing, the vehicle. A towing company that removes a vehicle under that section is responsible for damage in transit and subsequent storage.
| Party | What they are responsible for |
|---|---|
| Towing company | Responsible for damage to the vehicle in the transit and subsequent storage of the vehicle |
| Person causing the removal | The vehicle owner may recover for damage resulting from an intentional or negligent act of a person causing the removal of, or removing, the vehicle |
| Exceptions | None on record |
What the source says
Last verified against the primary source on Oct 22, 2026.
The owner of a vehicle removed from private property pursuant to subdivision (a) may recover for any damage to the vehicle resulting from any intentional or negligent act of a person causing the removal of, or removing, the vehicle.
A towing company that removes the vehicle under this section shall be responsible for the following: (1) Damage to the vehicle in the transit and subsequent storage of the vehicle.
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Common questions
Who pays for towing / impound: damage claims in Statewide, CA?
It depends on the specific facts. Responsible for damage to the vehicle in the transit and subsequent storage of the vehicle
What is this based on for Statewide, CA?
This verdict is sourced to California Vehicle Code Section 22658 and 2 sources in total, each independently re-checked before publication.
Sources
- California Vehicle Code Section 22658statute · verified-primary · accessed 2026-10-22
- California Vehicle Code Section 22658statute · verified-primary · accessed 2026-10-22
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