Towing Companies Settle Lawsuit; Customers To Get Refunds

Two local towing companies have settled a class action lawsuit which claimed they charged unlawful fees. As many as 50,000 people could get partial refunds. Central Ohio drivers whose cars were towed by Shamrock Towing or CamCar from private zones between September 1, 2008 and July 17, 2014 may be eligible for up to $28. To avoid a lengthy appeal process, the towing companies have agreed to pay back a portion of the fees they charged. A judge earlier ruled the so-called administrative fees unlawful. Attorney Fred Gittes represented individuals who brought the suit. “You don’t have to have documentation. You don’t have to have receipts," he said. Gittes said if people do not have records, a simple claims form must be filled out and notarized, others whose information is in towing company records should receive a form in the mail. The settlement prohibits the companies from charging the fees in the future unless state law is changed. The claim deadline is May 29. Settlement information is at www.ohiotowsettlement.com.