Steps to Take When an Abandoned Vehicle Is Left on Your Property

If you find an abandoned vehicle on your property, it can be a frustrating and concerning situation. Here are the steps you should follow to resolve the issue and ensure the safety and compliance of your property.

1. Determine Ownership and Stolen Status

If the vehicle is on your property, you have the right to take immediate action. The first step is to determine if the vehicle is stolen or belongs to someone who may need it. Call your local sheriff or the police department to run the vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check if it has been reported stolen or involved in any legal issues.

If the vehicle is not stolen and there is no current paperwork attached to it, you can proceed with having it impounded after 48 hours of police contact. If someone shows up and claims the vehicle, the police may allow them to take it away if they provide proper identification and documentation.

2. Arrange for Towing

If the vehicle is not reported stolen or you have legitimate proof that it is not stolen, the next step is to arrange for it to be towed. There are tow truck services available that can remove the vehicle at no cost to you. Simply call a local wrecker service and arrange for the towing. Once the vehicle is towed, you can provide the name of the complaint to the owner if they come to retrieve it.

Remember to take photos or videos of the vehicle being in your driveway before it is towed to document the situation. This can be useful in case there are any disputes or claims made by the owner later on.

3. Report to Local Authorities

Calling the local police is the best course of action. They can come to inspect the vehicle and determine if there are any stolen property reports or any other red flags. The police can also impound the vehicle if it is suspected to be abandoned or if it is reported stolen.

During the police visit, you should be prepared to sign a statement indicating that you are not aware of the owner and how to contact them. This will expedite the process of having the vehicle towed. In some cases, the police may take their time verifying the information provided by you before towing the vehicle. This is a common practice in the automotive trade industry.

4. Notify Your Local Police Outpost

Another step is to report the presence of the abandoned vehicle to the local police outpost. They can help in removing the vehicle from your property. Once the vehicle is removed, the owner will be subsequently informed, and they can take legal steps to reclaim the vehicle if needed.

It's important to document the entire process, including when you first noticed the vehicle, what you have done to address it, and any communication you have had with the authorities. This documentation can be helpful if there are any legal or financial implications that arise later.

Conclusion

Dealing with an abandoned vehicle on your property can be challenging, but with the right steps, you can resolve the situation efficiently. By following these guidelines and involving the appropriate authorities, you can ensure the safety and compliance of your property.

Remember, the key is to act promptly and follow the legal procedures to address the situation. If you have any concerns or require additional assistance, consult with a legal expert or local law enforcement to ensure that you are taking the necessary actions to protect your rights and property.