A Palm Springs family is speaking out after a 69-year-old woman’s car was towed while she was in the hospital. Linda, a senior resident, fell ill while visiting a business called Juice in Palm Springs. Another customer helped take her home, and a few hours later she called 911 and was transported to the hospital—where she remains under care.
Later that same day, her car was towed from the Juice parking lot by Dave’s Towing. Her nephew Courtney, who lives in Alabama, says he contacted the company to explain the situation but was told he would need to pay $880 plus $90 per day to retrieve the vehicle.
Courtney says he offered $250 and provided a written explanation of Linda’s condition but was told there was nothing they could do. “They acknowledged they have several cars from elderly people in similar situations who also can’t afford to get them back,” he said. “It feels like they’re profiting off vulnerable seniors.”
He also says Juice was the one to call the tow company, despite knowing that Linda had become ill at their business hours earlier. “They didn’t wait even 24 hours before calling to have her car removed,” he added.
NBC Palm Springs reached out to both Dave’s Towing and Juice. A representative from Dave’s initially responded but has not followed up. Juice has not returned multiple calls.
Courtney is calling on city leaders to examine local towing practices and how they affect elderly residents. “This isn’t just about my aunt. This could happen to anyone,” he said. “There needs to be a better system in place.”
Community contributors who joined the discussion say the situation highlights a broader issue of predatory towing practices, especially in areas with large senior populations. They’re urging local and state officials to consider regulation reforms.
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By: Fred Roggin
June 12, 2025
