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HPD Offers Parking Safety Tips to Rodeo Goers

(03/11/2011)

The Houston Police Department is offering some parking tips to rodeo goers who do not want to return to find their vehicles towed away.

“In years past, people parked on surface lots, which were run by private property tow companies,” said Officer J.E. Skelton, with HPD’s Auto Dealers Detail. “Rodeo goers would pay a stranger $20 to park and then return to find their cars had been towed. They then would have to pay about $180 in tow fees to get each vehicle back,” he added.

Under a Houston municipal ordinance, parking lots around the rodeo must be licensed. Officers from HPD’s Auto Dealers Detail want the public to know how they can identify a legitimate parking lot.

“The lots around the rodeo should be clearly labeled with an A-frame sign and clearly marked with the company name and parking price,” said Officer Skelton. “The employee should be wearing a uniform shirt or a safety vest with the name of the company. The employee should also wear identification with the company name, the employee’s name and the employee’s picture,” added Officer Skelton.

If rodeo goers see lots that seem questionable, they are encouraged to call HPD’s Auto Dealers Detail at 713-308-1440, Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. After hours, they can call 713-308-ALOT (2568).

“There are about 35 lots that are licensed,” said Officer Skelton. “If we run across an unlicensed lot or get a tip about one, we will write citations that can carry a fine of $250 to $500. If it is an egregious operation, we will take those involved to jail,” he added.

( 回首頁 Houston eWIND )

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