Florida, known for its busy highways, unpredictable weather, and strict traffic laws, is not a state where you want to leave a broken-down or inoperable vehicle unattended. If your car becomes disabled due to mechanical failure, an accident, or another emergency, failing to get it towed promptly can lead to serious consequences including legal, financial, and even safety-related. Here’s a detailed look at the risks of not towing your car in Florida. If you need towing in Palm Bay, FL, read on.

1. Legal Penalties and Towing by Authorities

Florida law treats abandoned or disabled vehicles on public roads seriously. If your vehicle is left on the shoulder, in a lane, or on the side of the road for too long without notifying authorities or arranging for removal, it may be towed at your expense. Under Florida Statute 316.061, leaving a vehicle that is a hazard to traffic can result in fines or even criminal charges in some cases.

Local law enforcement or the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) may classify the vehicle as abandoned or obstructive, and they have the authority to impound it. Not only will you have to pay for the tow, but you’ll also incur daily storage fees, which can quickly add up.

2. Increased Risk of Theft or Vandalism

Florida’s cities and highways see high volumes of traffic and foot traffic. A broken-down car left unattended, especially in an urban or poorly lit area, is an easy target for theft or vandalism. Thieves may strip the car for parts, steal personal belongings left inside, or damage the vehicle.

Not getting your car towed in a timely manner increases the chances of returning to a vehicle that is either damaged beyond repair or missing altogether. Insurance may not always cover the loss, particularly if the vehicle was considered abandoned.

3. Weather-Related Damage

Florida is notorious for sudden downpours, flooding, and extreme heat. Leaving your car on the side of the road, even for a short time, can expose it to severe weather damage. Floodwaters can infiltrate the engine and electrical systems, while high humidity and salt in the air (especially near coastal areas) can accelerate corrosion.

Our tow truck services are equipped to safely relocate your vehicle to a secure location or repair shop before the weather can cause more damage.

4. Liability for Accidents or Injuries

An unattended vehicle, especially if it’s partially blocking a road or hidden around a curve, can become a hazard to other drivers. If someone swerves to avoid your car and ends up in an accident, you could be held legally liable for the damages or injuries.

Florida is a no-fault insurance state, but liability may still fall on you if the vehicle was left in a dangerous position and no effort was made to remove it or warn others (e.g., using hazard lights or road flares).

5. Delays in Repairs and Higher Costs

Not towing your car promptly can delay necessary repairs. A vehicle sitting in an unsafe or exposed environment may sustain additional damage, leading to more extensive and expensive repairs once it’s finally taken in. Water damage, vandalism, or sun exposure can compound existing mechanical problems.

Also, our towing service offers emergency response 24/7. Waiting too long might mean paying extra for an after-hours pickup or emergency roadside assistance later.

Call Junk Man’s Towing to Assist you with our Towing Services

In Florida, not getting your car towed can turn a minor inconvenience into a major headache. From legal troubles and financial penalties to weather damage and personal liability, the risks are too high to ignore. Whether you’re dealing with a flat tire, engine trouble, or post-accident damage, arranging for a tow is not just a smart move—it’s often a legal and safety necessity. When in doubt, don’t leave your car stranded—call a licensed towing service and protect yourself, your vehicle, and others on the road.

At Junk Man’s Towing, we are proud to serve our customers with light duty towing services as well as heavy duty towing in and around Palm Bay, Florida. Our top priorities are fast response times, professional service, and customer satisfaction to ensure your towing experience is stress-free. Dealing with a flat tire? dead battery? accident? Well, we have you covered with our reliable light duty towing services. We work 24/7 to ensure your utmost safety in the following locations. Call us today at (321) 304-9617 for more information.