Getting car back from an impound lot earlier

[Confused_1]

What is the name of your state? California

My car was recently impounded due to me driving with a suspended license. When I tried to get the car from an impound lot, I found out it has a 30-day hold on it and I need a release form from a lieutenant at a Police station. The lieutenant told me that because I have no license (and will not have it until December of this year) I can only get the car back after the 30 days have passed.

My question is, I have reregistered the car in my and my mother's name (co-ownership?), so should they not release the car to her (before the 30 day period is over) since she is also a legal owner of the car? When I asked the lieutenant this question he said, "no" and wouldn't give me an explanation.

Also, if I cannot get the car before the 30 day period is over, can the impound lot legally do something to keep my car longer than 30 days (and thus make me pay for it)?

All advice is appreciated,
-Confused_1

[CdwJava]

Originally Posted by Confused_1

My question is, I have reregistered the car in my and my mother's name (co-ownership?), so should they not release the car to her (before the 30 day period is over) since she is also a legal owner of the car? When I asked the lieutenant this question he said, "no" and wouldn't give me an explanation.

Because the law does not permit people to get around the impound because of that. The vehicle can be impounded for 30 days even if it was NEVER registered to you!

CVC 14602.6 is the law that covers these impounds.

I conduct impound hearings for my agencies and have seen people try this. It's humorous, but does nothing to require we release the vehicle.

When/if you can get your license re-instated prior to the 30 days, then you can get it back (with a licensed driver AND after paying all the requisite fees).

Also, if I cannot get the car before the 30 day period is over, can the impound lot legally do something to keep my car longer than 30 days (and thus make me pay for it)?

Only if you fail to pay for it ... OR if you let it sit even longer and they initiate a lien sale proceeding.


- Carl

[Confused_1]

I guess I am screwed. Thanks for the quick response.

Also, I was able to find more information by searching for the violation code that you have provided. If anyone is interested, [url=http://www.chp.ca.gov/html/impound.html]this[/url] site offers answers to most questions you might have (valid in California).