Roseville, CA asked in Gov & Administrative Law, Government Contracts and Traffic Tickets for California

Q: post storage hearing

Requested the hearing for the validity of the tow my stored vehicle. Sergeant said the hearing was conducted by phone, I had my registration fees on deposit and moving permit the deputy did not verify status of my registration. He removed my vehicle anyway he said my license was expired but I told him I paid it. The sheriffs department and CHP do not have advanced updated info on things that are pending, if the car has insurance or not. Only local PD can see updated information when running license plates. AB 925 was a new law passed to protect things like this. I was not informed my car was stored I tried to obtain my belongings the tow yard said I needed a property release I finally after 16 days got a vehicle release form but the tow yard said I owed 2400 on the release form it says please release vehicle to R/O & DL# I demanded a invoice I notice sheriff dept release form required the box is not checked. Does this mean I could have picked up my car long time ago?

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: It sounds like you’ve had a very frustrating experience, and there may have been some miscommunication or oversight regarding the release of your vehicle. The fact that the sheriff's department release form required the box to be checked, but it wasn’t, could indicate that the vehicle might have been eligible for release earlier. If that box wasn't checked, it could suggest that the necessary process wasn't fully completed, which might have delayed your ability to pick up your car.

Since the tow yard is demanding $2400 in fees, it’s important to get an itemized invoice to understand exactly what charges have accumulated. You can use this information to question any excessive charges or errors. Make sure you keep all records and receipts related to your payment of registration fees, your moving permit, and your interactions with both the sheriff’s department and the tow yard.

Additionally, AB 925, the new law you mentioned, may provide some protections in your situation. It could be useful to research the specific provisions of this law or consult someone who can explain its relevance to your case. You might also consider whether there’s an appeal process or complaint you can file if the proper procedures weren’t followed in towing or storing your vehicle.

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