If you’ve ever experienced the sinking feeling of returning to where you parked your car only to find it missing, you’re not alone. One of the first questions that pops into your head is likely, “How Much Can I Get For My Car?”, quickly followed by “How much is this going to cost me?”. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of car towing and impoundment, focusing on fees, procedures, and your rights.
Finding Your Towed Vehicle
Your first step is to determine if your car was actually towed. Here’s how:
- Call 311: This is a quick and easy way to get information.
- Check the City’s Website: Many cities have online tools to search for towed vehicles.
Reasons for Towing
Several reasons can lead to your car being towed:
- Parking Violations: Parking where prohibited by posted signs is a common cause.
- Accident Clearance: Vehicles involved in accidents that obstruct traffic are often towed.
- Abandoned Vehicles: Cars deemed abandoned are subject to towing.
Reviewing local municipal codes, such as Chicago Municipal Code 9-92-030, can provide detailed information on towing and impounding regulations.
My Car Isn’t at the Pound – Is it Stolen?
Before reporting your car as stolen, consider that it might have been relocated. Cities sometimes relocate vehicles to clear streets for construction or emergency purposes. Contacting 311 can help determine if your car was relocated before assuming it was stolen.
Snow Route Tows
Even without snow, some cities enforce seasonal parking bans on designated snow routes. In Chicago, parking is restricted on priority arterial streets from 3 am to 7 am between December 1 and April 1, regardless of snow conditions. This measure aims to prevent traffic gridlock during winter storms.
Can I Get My Car Back While It’s Being Towed?
Unfortunately, no. Once a vehicle is lifted from its parked location, it must be taken to the impound lot.
Locating Your Towed Car
To find out where your car was towed:
- Call 3-1-1: They can provide information about the location of your car.
- Check Auto Pound Locations: Cities often have multiple auto pounds. Check the city’s website for addresses and directions.
Getting Your Car Out of the Pound
To reclaim your vehicle, you must be the owner of record or a representative of the owner. Requirements include:
- Payment of All Charges and Fines: All outstanding fees must be paid in full.
- Valid Photo Identification: Present a valid photo ID.
- Proof of Ownership: Provide a valid title, current registration card, or a bill of sale (less than 30 days old).
- Valid Driver’s License: If driving the vehicle out, the driver needs a valid license.
- Lease Agreement (If Applicable): If you’re leasing the vehicle, bring your lease agreement.
- Notarized Letter (If Applicable): If you’re representing the owner, you’ll need a notarized letter granting you permission.
Vehicles impounded for serious offenses like narcotics violations, DUI, or reckless driving may require a visit to a specific Vehicle Impoundment Office and payment of additional fines and fees before release.
Understanding Redemption Costs: How Much Can I Get For My Car?
One of the biggest concerns is the cost. Here’s a breakdown:
- Towing Fee: $150 (may be higher for larger vehicles)
- Storage Fee: $25/day (may be higher for larger vehicles), up to a maximum of $1,000.
Payment methods typically accepted include cash, VISA, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, or Diner’s Club. Checks and money orders are usually not accepted.
Parking Tickets and Towed Vehicles
While a parking ticket isn’t always required to tow a vehicle, it’s common for a ticket to be issued for parking violations. Follow the instructions on the Notice of Violation and check the Department of Finance’s website for payment options.
How Long Can My Car Stay at the Pound?
Vehicles are typically stored for a maximum of 21 days from the date the city sends notification to the registered owner.
What Happens If I Don’t Claim My Car?
If you don’t claim your vehicle, it may be disposed of or sold at auction. Even if the vehicle is disposed of, you’re still responsible for any outstanding fines or fees. See section 9-92-100 of the Chicago Municipal Code for more information on unclaimed vehicle disposal.
Additional Questions
For further inquiries, contact the Bureau of Traffic Services during business hours.
Damage Claims
If you believe your car was damaged at the pound or during towing, you can file a claim. The process varies depending on the pound’s location.
Contesting a Tow
You have the right to a post-tow hearing to contest the validity of the tow and associated fees. You can request a hearing when you redeem your vehicle or visit the nearest auto pound within 15 days of release. Attending the hearing is crucial to contest the tow effectively.
Poor Customer Service
Report any instances of rude or unhelpful tow pound employees to the appropriate authorities. Provide as much detail as possible to aid in the investigation.
Compliments
If you had a positive experience with a tow pound employee, share your compliment to recognize their good service.
Understanding the reasons for towing, the procedures for retrieving your vehicle, and the associated costs can help alleviate the stress and confusion of this unfortunate situation. By being informed and proactive, you can navigate the process more efficiently and protect your rights.
