Earlier this week, the New Jersey Turnpike Authority moved to regulate a per-mile price for towing companies to charge Garden State drivers whose cars have broken down on the Turnpike or Parkway, according to a report by NJ Advance Media.

Ramp onto the northbound New Jersey Turnpike truck lanes at #12 in Carteret
Ramp onto the northbound New Jersey Turnpike truck lanes at #12 in Carteret (Google Street View)
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The new standard, which likely would not go into effect until early next year, breaks down this way for motorists, according to the report:

  • a $72 hook-up charge,
  • $3.50 per mile while being towed on the Turnpike or Parkway,
  • $10 for the first mile off either of those toll roads, and
  • $7.50 for every mile after that.

Growing complaints by drivers about negotiating with tow truck drivers, over bringing disabled vehicles back to drivers' preferred service centers rather than each particular towing company's garage, convinced officials to take action, the report said.

Under the agreement, motorists would still have to make their own arrangements with towing companies, but the per-mile rates starting on either toll road would remain consistent, according to the report.

NJ Advance Media also cited a Turnpike Authority official who said the regulations would not apply to vehicles being towed out-of-state, or to large trucks and buses.

Patrick Lavery produces "New Jersey's First News" and is New Jersey 101.5's morning drive breaking news reporter. Follow him on Twitter @plavery1015 or email patrick.lavery@townsquaremedia.com.

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