How to Fight an Abandoned Vehicle Ticket in Arizona
Have you ever found yourself with an abandoned vehicle ticket on your windshield? If so, you’re not alone. Arizona has a serious problem with abandoned vehicles, and the city of Phoenix alone tows over 10,000 vehicles each year. While most of these vehicles are eventually claimed by their owners, some are not. And when that happens, the city has to foot the bill for towing and storage. In order to recoup these costs, the city issues abandoned vehicle tickets to the registered owners of the vehicles.
If you’ve received an abandoned vehicle ticket, don’t panic. There are several things you can do to fight it.
Understanding Abandoned Vehicle Laws in Arizona
According to Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-1381, an abandoned vehicle is defined as any vehicle that has been left unattended on public or private property for more than 24 hours without the permission of the property owner.
If a vehicle is found to be abandoned, the city may tow it and impound it. The registered owner of the vehicle will then be sent an abandoned vehicle ticket. The ticket will state the date and location of the violation, as well as the amount of the fine.
Fighting an Abandoned Vehicle Ticket
If you believe that you have received an abandoned vehicle ticket in error, you can contest it. There are two ways to do this:
- Request a Hearing – You can request an administrative hearing with the city. At the hearing, you will have the opportunity to present evidence to support your case.
- File an Appeal – If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your administrative hearing, you can file an appeal with the Superior Court.
Tips for Fighting an Abandoned Vehicle Ticket
Here are a few tips for fighting an abandoned vehicle ticket:
- Gather Evidence – If you have any evidence to support your case, such as a receipt showing that you paid to have your vehicle towed or a witness who can attest to the fact that you did not abandon your vehicle, be sure to bring it with you to your hearing.
- Be Prepared to Testify – At your hearing, you will be asked to testify under oath about the circumstances surrounding your vehicle’s abandonment. Be sure to tell the truth and answer all questions honestly.
- Dress Professionally – First impressions matter, so dress professionally for your hearing. This will show the judge that you are taking the matter seriously.
FAQs About Abandoned Vehicle Tickets
Q: How much is the fine for an abandoned vehicle ticket?
A: The fine for an abandoned vehicle ticket in Arizona is $250.
Q: What happens if I don’t pay my abandoned vehicle ticket?
A: If you do not pay your abandoned vehicle ticket, the city may place a hold on your driver’s license or registration. You may also be subject to additional fines and penalties.
Q: What if my vehicle was stolen?
A: If your vehicle was stolen, you should file a police report and provide a copy of the report to the city. You may also be able to get a waiver for your abandoned vehicle ticket.
Conclusion
If you have received an abandoned vehicle ticket, don’t panic. There are several things you can do to fight it. By following the tips in this article, you can increase your chances of having your ticket dismissed.
Are you interested in learning more about abandoned vehicle laws in Arizona?
