Here in Missery you need proof of insurance, proof of paid property tax and an inspection certificate to get tags, though we can now get two year tags and inspections. My insurance card is a computer printout I could easily fake, but I suspect the insurance companies are required to inform the DMV of failure to maintain insurance. In fact, I know the bank or credit union holding the car loan is notified because my son's insurance lapsed as he was returning home from the Navy.
As to towing companies, I've had only good interactions with them, though I'm sure, as in just about any business, there are stinkers. I have AAA, and have had tow drivers waive small over-mileage fees a couple of times. On the other hand, my son was with a friend who got stopped for DUI in Daytona Beach. The friend's car was obviously and correctly towed, but getting it back after he had gone through the system was a real ordeal. The tow company wanted what can only reasonably be called an exorbitant fee (I don't recall the amount due to it being a few years ago and my Alzheimer's, but do recall it was really big $$$$$), and they'd probably still have the car if the friend's grandfather didn't happen to be a judge in an adjacent state who had strong Florida contacts. The way they caved under pressure was a further indication they were trying to get more than they were entitled to. The courts are supposed to collect fines. The tow company should collect fees for their services, and they should be able to set such fees like any business, but in circumstances where the "customer" has no say as to the service, such fees should be regulated, and probably are in most locales.
I believe in requiring insurance to drive. I can't say I like the insurance business....it costs me way too much money for all the various coverages I have....about as bad as taxes....but I can't see a reasonable justification for not requiring liability insurance to drive.
There. I covered three topic in one post. Do I get credit for all three?
Chuck