An abandoned vehicle can be an eyesore, a safety hazard, and a legal issue. Whether you are a property owner dealing with an unwanted car on your lot or a concerned citizen noticing a vehicle left unattended for too long, knowing how to determine if a vehicle is abandoned and when it should be towed is important. NonStop Towing will share how you can determine if a vehicle is abandoned and when you should have it towed.
Signs that a Vehicle Has Been Abandoned
Not every parked car is abandoned. However, certain signs indicate that a vehicle has likely been left behind with no intention of recovery.
No Recent Movement: A car that hasn’t moved in weeks or months is a major red flag. Look for:
• Flat or deflated tires.
• A thick layer of dirt, dust, or leaves covering the vehicle.
• Cobwebs around the tires or between the vehicle and the ground.
Expired or Missing License Plates: Most states require vehicles to have valid, up-to-date registration tags. If a car has missing plates or an expired registration sticker, it could be abandoned.
Visible Damage or Disrepair: A vehicle with major damage may have been left behind after an accident or mechanical failure. Signs of neglect include:
• Broken windows or missing parts.
• Heavy rust or corrosion.
• Doors left open or a trunk ajar.
Accumulated Parking Tickets or Notices: Authorities or property owners may place notices or parking tickets on an abandoned vehicle. If you see multiple warnings posted over several days, it likely means the owner is not returning.
Location and Positioning: A car left in an unusual or illegal spot, such as:
• Blocking a driveway or fire hydrant.
• Parked in an abandoned lot or on private property.
• Sitting for an extended period in a public parking area without moving.
These are strong signs that the vehicle has been abandoned.
When to Have an Abandoned Vehicle Towed
Once you have identified an abandoned vehicle, it’s essential to follow legal procedures before having it towed.
Confirm the Local Laws on Abandoned Vehicles: Different cities and states have specific rules regarding abandoned vehicles. In many cases, the car must be left in the same spot for a set period, often 48 to 72 hours before it’s officially considered abandoned.
• Check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or municipal code enforcement.
• If the vehicle is on public property, report it to law enforcement.
• If it’s on your private property, you may need to follow a legal process before having it towed.
Attempt to Locate the Owner: Before towing, try to identify and contact the owner. Steps may include:
• Checking with neighbors or nearby businesses.
• Looking up the vehicle’s registration.
• Posting a notice on the vehicle stating that it will be towed if not moved within a specific timeframe.
Report the Vehicle to Authorities
If the car is on public property, report it to your local parking enforcement or police department. They will investigate, issue citations, and, if necessary, authorize towing. If the car is on private property, local laws may allow you to request a tow after proper notice. You might need to provide proof of ownership of the property and documentation that the vehicle has been left there unlawfully.
Call a Towing Service
If you have followed the appropriate legal steps, contact a professional towing service to remove the abandoned vehicle. Depending on local regulations, the tow company may:
• Impound the vehicle.
• Attempt to track down the owner.
• Dispose of the vehicle if it remains unclaimed for a certain period.
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Abandoned vehicles can be a nuisance and a safety risk. By knowing the signs of abandonment and following the proper steps, you can ensure the vehicle is removed legally and efficiently. Need a towing service to remove an abandoned vehicle? For quality towing services contact Nonstop Towing today.
