What are the laws on traffic obstruction and towing, and what rights do I have?

Question from Keith: My question to you is if I was driving and I parked my car in a residential area where it wasn’t obstructing any residence driveways or any hazards, and it was in the clear. I found out when I came back later on that my car was towed. The car is registered and insured, but it previously was in an accident, and the front end has some cosmetic damage. However, the car is legal and legit. I left it there and came back to find out it was towed because they said it was obstructing traffic. What are the laws on traffic obstruction, as they impounded my car and it’s been over 3 days (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) when they were closed, and they’re charging me for it? I really don’t have the means to get the car out, and it’s bad enough I had to wait 3 days before I could even get a chance to get my car out. Can you tell me what am I supposed to do in this situation, and do I have rights?

Answer from AI:

It’s important to understand that laws regarding traffic obstruction and towing can vary depending on your location. However, I can provide you with some general information that may help you understand your situation and your rights.

Traffic Obstruction Laws

Traffic obstruction laws are typically designed to ensure the safe and efficient flow of traffic. These laws may prohibit parking in certain areas, such as:

• Fire lanes
• Bus stops
• No parking zones
• Handicap spaces without proper permits
• Blocking driveways or sidewalks

In some jurisdictions, a vehicle may also be considered an obstruction if it is deemed to be a hazard or if it is inoperable. Cosmetic damage alone may not be enough to justify towing, but if the damage affects the vehicle’s safety or operability, it could be considered an obstruction.

Towing and Impoundment

If your vehicle is towed for obstructing traffic, it will likely be taken to an impound lot. Fees and procedures for retrieving your vehicle can vary, but generally, you may be responsible for:

1. Paying towing fees
2. Paying storage fees for each day your vehicle is impounded
3. Providing proof of ownership, registration, and insurance

It’s important to act quickly, as storage fees can accumulate rapidly, and in some cases, your vehicle may be auctioned off or scrapped if it is not claimed within a certain time frame.

Your Rights and Next Steps

In this situation, you may want to:

1. Review local traffic and parking laws to determine if your vehicle was parked legally and whether the towing was justified.
2. Contact the towing company or impound lot to discuss the fees and requirements for retrieving your vehicle.
3. Consider seeking legal advice from an attorney who specializes in traffic or towing disputes. They can help you understand your rights and options, and may be able to assist you in contesting the towing or negotiating a reduction in fees.

Keep in mind that this information is general in nature and may not apply to your specific situation. It’s always a good idea to consult with a legal professional for personalized advice.

For more information on traffic obstruction laws and towing regulations, you can visit your local government’s website or consult their traffic code. Additionally, you may find helpful resources on websites like the Nolo Traffic Tickets page.