Law lets crews remove disabled vehicles from roads and public waters

Specified state personnel may arrange to remove certain disabled vehicles and cargo from highways or their rights of way. This covers Highway Patrol and Transportation agents, sheriffs, and state peace officers, as well as removal agencies and people acting for them. This applies when the driver or person in charge cannot promptly arrange removal from the traveled part of a highway or its right of way, or when the vehicle blocks or threatens traffic. Crews may also remove spilled cargo or other occupant property if it could block traffic or create a safety hazard. The vehicle owner is responsible for removal costs incurred by the state, a local government, or a removal agency acting for them.

Specified state personnel and people acting at their direction may remove disabled vehicles and watercraft from public waters for public safety. This covers Highway Patrol, Transportation, and Game, Fish and Parks agents; sheriffs and state peace officers; and removal agencies or others acting at their direction. Covered vehicles and watercraft are boats, motor vehicles, off-road vehicles, and snowmobiles. The owner is responsible for removal costs incurred by the state, a local government, or a removal agency acting for them.

The law limits when specified personnel and removal crews are liable for damage caused while removing covered vehicles, cargo, or property. It covers damage to the removed vehicle or watercraft, its cargo, occupants' or operators' personal property, and the surrounding area. The liability limit does not apply if the removal involved gross negligence or willful and wanton misconduct.