It can be quite distressing to find out that your car has been impounded by the police following an accident. But why do they do it? In this article, we will explore the reasons behind police impounding cars after an accident and what you can do in such situations.
The Reasons for Police Impounding Cars
If the police deem a car inoperable after an accident, they will impound it, especially if the driver was too injured to move it. Additionally, if the injured party is unable to call for a tow truck themselves, the police may call on their behalf to have the car impounded.
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What Happens When Your Car is Impounded?
If your car has been deemed inoperable or you are too injured to handle the situation, the police may call a tow truck company to impound your vehicle. However, if you are able, there are some steps you can take:
- Take photos of your car and the accident scene for evidence.
- Remove your belongings from the car, as you may not have immediate access to them again.
If you are unable to do these things at the crash scene, don’t worry. An insurance adjuster will inspect your car and take pictures before it goes to the repair shop. Alternatively, you or a friend can retrieve your belongings from the impoundment lot at a later time.
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When the tow truck arrives, be sure to ask the driver about the location where your car will be taken, the towing and storage costs, and request documentation of the towing. If you’re too injured to stay at the scene until the tow truck arrives, the police will provide you with this information.
Who Pays for the Towing and Storage Costs?
In many cases, the at-fault driver and/or their insurance company can cover the car impoundment fees and related costs. Initially, however, the bill may be sent to you, so make sure to retain it for submission to your insurer for reimbursement.
If neither party is cooperating, you may have other options. If you have uninsured/underinsured (UM/UIM) coverage, it may cover the towing costs and other damages. Alternatively, you can file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. It’s crucial to act quickly, as there is generally a four-year deadline for personal injury lawsuits under Florida Statutes § 95.11(3)(a).
In the meantime, it is advisable to retrieve your car from the impoundment lot as soon as possible to avoid accruing higher fees. Additionally, if your car remains in the lot for an extended period, the tow truck company may sell it.
What Damages Can You Include in Your Car Accident Case?
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Apart from seeking reimbursement for the storing and towing costs, you can also request compensation for other damages you have sustained, such as medical care bills, loss of income and benefits, future loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, vehicle repair or replacement bills, scarring and disfigurement, and mental anguish. A car accident lawyer can review your case and determine the damages you can pursue and their value.
How a Lawyer Can Help You in These Situations
Recovering compensation from the liable party can be challenging, especially when you are focusing on your recovery and trying to retrieve your car and belongings. In such cases, it is beneficial to have a car accident attorney handle your legal matters. They can gather evidence, compile your towing and storing bills, obtain a copy of the crash report, negotiate with the liable insurance company for a settlement, handle communications with all involved parties, and represent you in trial if necessary.
At the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato, we understand the financial burden you may face, which is why we work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you only pay us if we successfully recover your damages. There is no need to worry about upfront costs or hourly rates for our services.
Contact Us for Help
If your vehicle has been impounded by the police after an accident, don’t hesitate to seek our assistance. Contact the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato at (954) 633-8270 for an attorney who can help you retrieve your car and pursue compensation for the costs and other damages. Your first call is free, so reach out to us today.
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Category: WHY
