Sometimes life takes you in challenging directions, so if your vehicle has been impounded for parking in tow-away zone, you are going to have to tackle the process getting it out. Each day that it sits there, your vehicle racking up more fees. So, before just showing up at the impound lot, be sure to have all of your ducks in a row.

Find the Vehicle

Finding your vehicle can be the most challenging part. Start with the reason for the impound. If the car was impounded after an arrest, the police should give you the impound information. On the other hand, if your car was towed without your consent, that is much harder. If the vehicle was towed due to illegal parking, check the nearby signage to see who to contact about the towing or ask the closest business if they know. You can also call the city office and ask the clerk to see if your car was impounded.

The system takes a bit to update so give it some time, at least a few hours, to register and call back and ask if your towed vehicle is listed in their lot. If you have given the impound lots a thorough look, there is a chance that your vehicle was not towed, but stolen. You can notify the police of a stolen vehicle but be aware that you may discover it has just been impounded.

Pay the Fees

Whether your car was towed to a city or private lot, most impound lots charge daily, so the longer your vehicle sits there, the more expensive it will be for you to retrieve it. Impound fees vary, but it’s not cheap. If you are in a sticky situation, ask a friend or family member. If that is not an option, raise the money you need by selling something of value. If no other option remains, check out your local payday loan office – this should always be a last resort, payday loans come with steep charges.

Provide the Paperwork

Get paperwork in order as soon as possible. Also, don’t show up without everything you need or a ride to get back, just in case you don’t have sufficient documentation. You can even call the lot and ask:

• If your car was towed to their lot and hours of operation
• The exact amount owed on day of pick up
• Payment forms accepted, such as cash, credit, or check
• If proof of insurance needs to be printed or if you can show a digital format
• Precisely what other paperwork you will need to provide to get your vehicle out
• Fax number in case you cannot get a hard copy of any particular document

Most likely, you will absolutely have to have proof of insurance to get your car out of impound. If you do not already have insurance, shop quickly and smartly, especially if you need SR-22 insurance.

With these tips on how to get your car out of impound, you will have a much higher chance of doing it successfully the first time around. Good luck from the team here at Parker Towing.

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