If you were arrested and your car was impounded how long do you have to get back before they sell it in California?

Answer

as far as the lots here in san diego go (which is practically run by former cops)selling your vehicle, they won't sale it right away. you have time to get it out. your best bet is to have someone call the lot, get the total and try to work out a deal. 30 days usually is how long they try to hold it ransom. remember it cost every day that it sits there. so you're looking at the initial day @ around $250-282 which includes chp tax, hook up cost, storage etc. then roughly close to another $80 per day on top of that. if you wait too long it won't be even worth it to get it out.

Answer

Not getting personal, but depending on why you were arrested it may be a lot more expensive than a couple of hundred because they may have tacked on additional fees and interest simply as a DETERRANT so you'll be discouraged from getting your auto back.

With as many years as I've been in security, I've had more than enough dealings with police who will say flat out they would want someone on pending narcotics charges to be "nice and immobilized". The suspect having his/her own vehicle is the easiest way to flee a state.

If this is going to be a regular problem I'd encourage you to elect EXTENDED comprehensive coverage on your insurance policy so if it does get impounded all you pay is a small deductible and don't loose your auto from daily rocketing surcharges. Good Luck!

First answer by poppy. Last edit by Matt Staley. Question popularity: 142 [recommend question]

Can you answer other questions about traffic laws?