MOTORISTS can dodge expensive tow fees this winter – simply by knocking up a DIY sign.
Drivers living in Alta, Utah, are at risk of $800 charges if officials have to move their vehicle.
The town is now asking people who have to park overnight to add a homemade sign to their windshield with their contact details.
This way authorities can call them and ask them to move the car – helping them to avoid steep tow fees.
Alta Town Marshal Mike Morey said: “By the time you pay for the towing and our citation, you can be [paying up to] $800.
“And that’s an awful high penalty for a small parking mistake.”
Morey explained that its difficult to get tow trucks right to the top of the canyon at this time of year.
Alta is nestled in the snowy Wasatch Mountain Range, near Salt Lake City.
Known for its popular ski resorts – it’s vital that snow plows can get in and clear the roads.
Morey added that this tip can help motorists avoid a citation – as officials simply want cars out of the way for plows to have better access.
And for those worried about leaving their personal info out on display, Morey said: “We’re not asking people to leave a bunch of personal information out that they’re not comfortable with.
“What we’re asking is, give us a place to start looking in case we need to move your vehicle.”
It comes as residents living in a major city are also risking fines and possible tows if their cars violate emergency snow rules.
Drivers in Boston, Massachusetts, have been warned about where they park their vehicles this winter – with the city encouraging residents to utilize off-street parking.
Many garages offer alternate places to park at discounted rates for those with parking stickers, while other local businesses sometimes also offer temporary parking options.
Garages known to offer discounted rates during snow emergencies include the Boston Common Garage, which caters specifically for residents of Beacon Hill, Back Bay, and Downtown Boston.
Locals must present proof of residency at the garage office to receive the discount.
Other participating garages include the Auditorium Garage and the Motor Mart Garage, which also offer discounted rates for residents of certain neighbourhoods.
Drivers are reminded to be ready to confirm their eligibility requirements with each specific garage, and that discounted rates are usually only valid for the duration of the snow emergency.
Boston locals are also encouraged to remember their snow removal responsibilities, which includes clearing sidewalks outside their property and keeping fire hydrants and ramps clear.
