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Why do people put a towel in their car window when it breaks down on the side of the road?

"I've noticed multiple cars on the side of the road with the window slightly rolled down and a towel or shirt shoved inside.

Why do people do this?"

avatar
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“This is simply a signal to law enforcement that the car isn’t abandoned and that the driver will be back for it soon.
Some people use the towel/T-shirt-in-the-window method, while others tie something to the antenna.
This signal will keep your car from being towed or impounded.”
View full answer 
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