Can a tow yard deny access to my tools after impounding my truck?

Full question:

I had my vehicle towed from the highway patrol. My car was impounded for 30 days. The truck went up for a lien. We had a property release authorization from the highway patrol, but the tow yard denied me my work tools and my tool box that were in the back of my truck. Is that legal,and what are my rights

Answer:

In California, it is unlawful for unauthorized individuals to remove unattended vehicles from highways except under specific circumstances outlined in the law (Cal. Veh. Code § 22650). If a vehicle is impounded, the law enforcement agency must establish the authority for the impoundment. The tow yard must also comply with regulations regarding the release of personal items from the vehicle.

According to California law, if you have a property release authorization from the highway patrol, you may have the right to retrieve personal items, including work tools and a toolbox, from your impounded vehicle. The tow yard cannot legally deny access to your property unless there are specific legal reasons to do so.

If you believe your rights are being violated, you may want to seek legal assistance or contact the appropriate local authority to address the situation.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Yes, you can sue the police for impounding your car, but it can be challenging. You must prove that the impoundment was unlawful or violated your rights. Common reasons for a lawsuit include lack of probable cause or failure to follow proper procedures. It’s advisable to consult with a legal professional to evaluate your specific situation and the likelihood of success in your case. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*