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Abandoned Property
Can I claim money from the auction of my abandoned car?

Can I claim money from the auction of my abandoned car?

Full question:

I’ve abandoned my car long ago. I found that the car was sold in an auction by the authorities two months back. Can I claim the money from the sale of my car from them?

Category: Abandoned Property
Date: 04/07/2025
State: West Virginia

Answer:

The enforcement agency that sold your abandoned car at auction will first cover its expenses for towing, storing, and selling the vehicle. If there are any proceeds left after these costs, you can claim the remaining amount within ninety days. If you do not claim it within that time, the funds will go to the State Road Fund.

For more details, refer to W. Va. Code § 17-24A-6.

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

Can I sell a car that has been abandoned on my property?

You may be able to sell a car that has been abandoned on your property, but you should first check your state's laws regarding abandoned vehicles. Generally, you may need to report the vehicle to local authorities and follow specific procedures to gain legal ownership before selling it. This can include notifying the last registered owner and possibly obtaining a title. Always ensure you comply with local regulations to avoid legal issues.

How do I take ownership of an abandoned vehicle?

To take ownership of an abandoned vehicle, you typically need to report it to local authorities. They may require you to wait a certain period for the owner to claim it. After this period, you may need to follow specific steps, such as obtaining a title or a bill of sale, to legally claim the vehicle. Check your state's laws for detailed procedures and requirements.

What is Indiana state law on abandoned vehicles?

In Indiana, a vehicle is considered abandoned if it is left on public property for more than 48 hours or on private property without permission for more than 30 days. Local authorities can remove abandoned vehicles, and the owner may face penalties. If you find an abandoned vehicle, report it to law enforcement to initiate the proper process. Always check local laws for specific details.

What is considered an abandoned vehicle in GA?

In Georgia, a vehicle is deemed abandoned if it is left unattended on public property for more than 24 hours or on private property without consent for more than 30 days. Local authorities can take action to remove abandoned vehicles. If you encounter an abandoned vehicle, it's important to report it to the local police or sheriff's department.

Can I claim an abandoned vehicle?

Claiming an abandoned vehicle typically involves reporting it to local authorities and following state-specific procedures. You may need to wait a designated period for the original owner to reclaim it. If unclaimed, you might be able to obtain ownership through a legal process, which could include obtaining a title. Always check your state's laws for the exact steps to take.

How long until a car is considered abandoned in Washington state?

In Washington state, a vehicle is considered abandoned if it is left on public property for more than 24 hours or on private property without permission for more than 72 hours. Local authorities can tow abandoned vehicles after these timeframes. It's advisable to report any abandoned vehicles to the appropriate local agency for proper handling.