Can I Have A Car Towed Off My Property?
Many people have probably faced the issue of having an unwanted vehicle parked on their property. The vehicle could belong to a neighbor, a previous tenant, or even a complete stranger. In these situations, it’s crucial to know your rights and the steps involved in having the vehicle removed.
Before taking any action, it’s important to determine if the vehicle is legally parked on your property. If the vehicle is parked on the street or in a public area, you may not have the authority to have it towed. However, if the vehicle is trespassing on your property, you have the right to take legal action.
What Constitutes Trespassing?
Trespassing occurs when a person enters or remains on another person’s property without permission. In the case of a vehicle, trespassing occurs when it is parked on your property without your consent. It’s important to note that the vehicle does not have to be blocking your driveway or obstructing your property’s use to be considered trespassing.
If you discover a vehicle trespassing on your property, there are several steps you can take:
- Contact the owner of the vehicle: If you know who owns the vehicle, you should contact them directly and ask them to remove it. Most people will be cooperative and remove the vehicle promptly.
- Post a “No Trespassing” sign: If you don’t know who owns the vehicle, you can post a “No Trespassing” sign on your property. This will put people on notice that they are not allowed to park on your property.
- Call the police: If the owner of the vehicle does not respond or refuses to move the vehicle, you can call the police. The police can issue a citation to the owner of the vehicle and have it towed if necessary.
- Hire a towing company: If the police are unable to assist you, you can hire a towing company to remove the vehicle from your property. However, you will be responsible for paying the towing fees.
Tips and Expert Advice
Here are some tips and expert advice for dealing with vehicles trespassing on your property:
- Document the trespassing: Take photos or videos of the vehicle and note the date and time it was parked on your property.
- Be polite and respectful: When contacting the owner of the vehicle or the police, be polite and respectful. Explain the situation and ask them to cooperate.
- Don’t take matters into your own hands: Removing the vehicle from your property by yourself could be considered a crime. Always contact the authorities or a towing company.
By following these tips, you can effectively deal with vehicles trespassing on your property and protect your rights.
FAQs
- Q: Can I have a car towed off my property if it’s not blocking my driveway?
A: Yes, you can have a car towed off your property even if it’s not blocking your driveway. Trespassing occurs when a vehicle is parked on your property without your permission, regardless of its location. - Q: What should I do if the owner of the vehicle is unknown?
A: If the owner of the vehicle is unknown, you can post a “No Trespassing” sign on your property and contact the police. The police can issue a citation to the owner of the vehicle and have it towed if necessary. - Q: Who is responsible for the towing fees?
A: The owner of the vehicle is responsible for the towing fees. However, if the police are unable to assist you and you hire a towing company, you will be responsible for paying the towing fees.
Conclusion
Dealing with vehicles trespassing on your property can be frustrating, but it’s important to know your rights and take the appropriate steps to have the vehicle removed. By following the tips and advice in this article, you can effectively protect your property and ensure that vehicles are not parked there without your permission.
Do you have any questions about having a car towed off your property? Leave a comment below and I’ll be happy to answer them.
