After breaking down, whether from engine problems or flat tire, the last thing you will worry about is whether or not your cars can get towed away. Will the property tow your car away if you leave there overnight? Will the city tow your car from a public parking spot if you leave it for a few days while you gather the necessary funds or resources to repair your vehicle?
These are all pertinent questions that are asked by countless drivers all across the nation. But the answers to these questions depend on many factors, namely the location of the broken down vehicle. Where a car breaks down is the true deciding factor in how long it can be left there legally, or before it is declared “abandoned” by authorities.
Continue reading to learn how long it takes for an abandoned vehicle to get towed away depending on its location, plus what you can do to avoid being towed after breakdown.
Where Did Your Car Breakdown?
Municipal Property
If a car breaks down on the side of a public road or highway, the typical statute of time before labeled “abandoned” is 24 hours. If the car actually breaks down in the middle of traffic, it is recommended to attempt to get the car off to the side of the road as soon as possible, but if it is too dangerous, the police take on the task.
Public Property
If a car breaks down on other public property, like a public parking lot, the police can legally tow it after it has been registered as an abandoned vehicle. Although it varies from state to state, if a car is left unattended for more than 30 days, and is never reported stolen, it is labeled “abandoned.”
Private Property
If a vehicle breaks down on private property, there is very little time before it will be towed. As long as the towing truck company has written authorization from the property owner or police, it can be towed immediately. It is never recommended to leave your broken down car on private property. So, always have it towed right away to a mechanic by a professional tow company near your location.
Prepared Drivers are the Safest Drivers
A breakdown can be a frustrating and time consuming situation, so be sure you know what to do if it ever happens to you. Not only will this knowledge better prepare you for how to handle the situation, but it can also give insight on how to prevent similar vehicular problems from happening in the future. A trusted Indiana towing service can provide all the information you need about breaking down on public or private property.
Are you faced with the decision of leaving your broken-down car somewhere? Don’t do that! Contact Zore’s Towing for truly affordable 24 hour roadside assistance and towing services in Indianapolis and its surrounding locations. We operate 24/7, year-round, and state-wide.
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