Bike towed and damaged

Sgt_Pepper_2

Lum wrote: »

Anyone got any advice to actually help the OP?

Only thing I can think of. When they collected the car, did they have one of those forms where they inspect the bike and mark off any existing damage?

A lot of garages photograph vehicles when they collect them.

Lum

That would count as well. Any photographs?

bricksalad

Just wanted to clear a few things up.

I'm not debating being stopped etc. I was in the wrong and was penalised for it. I was very polite and did not put up any argument.

I had insurance, MOT, road tax etc. The police were out in numbers by the roadside and were doing vehicle checks, hence the zero tolerance policy.

The problem is that they damaged my vehicle while it was in their care. The damage is such that the panel would have to be replaced, and if I don't it's going to fall off after one too many potholes.

I don't have any photographs of the bike, as I didn't have a camera on me when stopped. I was told by the policeman that the towing company makes a note of any damage before picking it up...but if they damaged it and realised it, what's to stop them saying it was already there? Plus, they stole my keyring, so I don't think I'd trust them anyway.

Sgt_Pepper_2

You know which garage took it and the officer. Give him a call and ask if the garage photograph vehicles, is it policy or the norm. Then post back.

Sgt_Pepper_2

Out of interest which force was it?

Many have an online recovery system with access to the photos.

Lum

The damage inspection should have been done with you present, not while it was at the yard, and you should have signed it.

Without this, it will be rather hard for them to prove that it was like that when it came in.

Maybe it would be worth trying to get hold of the police officer and asking if they're prepared to say anything about the condition of the bike when it left. I personally wouldn't bother trying this because my local police are useless, but perhaps yours are a bit better?

Sgt_Pepper_2

The driver/rider isn't always present when recovery arrives.

bricksalad

Sgt_Pepper wrote: »

Out of interest which force was it?

Many have an online recovery system with access to the photos.

It was the Met.

If I can get a hold of the car pound, shall I explain the situation or only ask the question about photographing vehicles without saying why?

Sgt_Pepper_2

You'll have to help me.
Do the met use their own pounds?

bricksalad

Yes that would be correct.