Call your city’s non-emergency police number (like 311) for more information if the parking authority can’t answer all of your questions. [2] X Research source Ask business or apartment complex owners who they called to tow your vehicle if you were parked on their property. When in doubt, ask people in the area or passersby if they saw which towing company moved your car. Don’t call 911 to ask about a towed car. It’s considered a waste of emergency resources and may be illegal.
If you were towed from an apartment complex or business, file a complaint with the owners or managers and ask for the reason you were towed.
If you can prove you were wrongfully or illegally towed, you likely won’t have to pay to retrieve your car. If the tow company is proven guilty of illegal or exploitative behavior, they might face a large fine and you could receive additional compensation.
Remember that tow yards and companies are businesses that can work with law enforcement as well.
If you prove you were forced to violate a parking regulation or other law due to extenuating or emergency circumstances, a court may waive your fees. File your claim or request a hearing as soon as possible. There is typically a limited number of days after the incident when your complaint will be valid. Some cities require you to request a hearing in-person and/or in writing. Check your city’s official website ending in “. gov” or “. org. ”
Free legal services will likely not help if your car was impounded due to criminal activity.
The interest rates of tow yard payment plans are usually high. However, this could be a good option if you need your car back quickly and don’t have the money up front.
Provide proof of employment and income plus a plan to repay the money when you apply for aid through a nonprofit organization or similar program. These organizations might also locate low-income car loans, offer help registering your vehicle, or assist with paying off outstanding tickets. Some organizations, like churches or charities, may ask for volunteer hours or another commitment in exchange for financial assistance. [11] X Research source
If you plan on repaying friends or family, secure a loan as soon as possible to reduce the amount you’ll have to pay back. If friends and family can’t help, ask them to share your crowdfunding link to reach as many people as possible.
Payday loans are cash advance loans that typically have high interest rates and fees. Use a payday loan as a short-term fix if your car impoundment is an emergency.
You may have to swap the hard copy of your title to get the loan.
