Senate Bill 1067 Summary

• Amends 47 O.S. 2011, Section 955 to expand the locations where law enforcement officers can authorize vehicle towing beyond just "the roadway" to include public roads, highways, streets, turnpikes, and private roads/streets/alleys that provide access to residential dwellings.

• Authorizes officers of the Department of Public Safety and other political subdivisions to tow vehicles in seven specific circumstances: stolen vehicles, abandoned vehicles, when driver is arrested, at accident scenes, when driver lacks valid driving privileges, when vehicle used in felony offenses (with search warrant), or when vehicle is uninsured.

• Protects licensed wrecker operators from liability for damage when removing vehicles that obstruct traffic or create hazards, provided the removal is requested by law enforcement and done with reasonable care.

• Requires officers to use the nearest licensed wrecker operator in rotation, with equal consideration given to all operators within reasonable distance; allows exceptions for hazardous conditions or in counties bordering other states.

• Effective November 1, 2012; includes disciplinary provision imposing 30-day suspension without compensation for officers who call non-requested wrecker services without consent, except in specific removal situations.