Massachusetts Grapples With Blizzard-Abandoned Vehicles

In the aftermath of the Massachusetts blizzard on Monday, Feb. 23, dozens of vehicles were abandoned on roads and subsequently towed, with many ending up on tow lots awaiting their owners.

According to NBC10 Boston, state police reported assisting more than 500 motorists during the storm, while tow contractors cleared several dozen abandoned vehicles to reopen roadways. 

On Route 24, for example, drivers faced poor visibility and treacherous conditions, leading to several vehicle abandonments. NBC10 Boston captured video of dozens of vehicles abandoned on roads — some half-buried in snow.

Lynch's Tow Service in Brockton said its employees removed more than 100 cars during the snowstorm. Two days later, several vehicle owners still had not retrieved their vehicles.

The office of Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell said there are set tow rates during snow emergencies.

"Mass. DPU regulates our fee, so it is $132 for the tow, and then you can charge for mileage and storage," said Sean Bastis, a manager at Lynch's Towing Service, in a statement shared with NBC10 Boston.

Tow operators explained that ownership is typically required for retrieval after a vehicle is towed, though exceptions may be granted via email. Owners must claim and reclaim their vehicles.

When severe weather strikes, authorities urge residents to heed travel warnings and stay off the roads to prevent further incidents.