Abandoned vehicles are a serious problem for automotive repair shops and storage facilities. Not only are they often left with the unclaimed or abandoned vehicle, but they’re also often left with a hefty unpaid bill from the customer. It can be frustrating and seemingly impossible to track down the vehicle owner to pay their invoice; so what can be done? If you’re a licensed automotive repair shop or a storage facility, you may be eligible to file for a mechanic’s lien or storage lien to recover the costs.
Abandoned vehicles are vehicles that are completely abandoned by their registered owner with no intention to collect the vehicle and/or the prior owner is unable to be identified through DMV records or other official records. Most abandoned vehicles aren’t necessarily a “finders keepers” type of situation. Typically most states require that at the end of an abandoned vehicle process, the vehicle must be disposed of rather than titled with a new owner. The abandoned vehicle process is not designed for purchasing and titling junk vehicles.
This rule also applies to any abandoned automobiles or:
Not every abandoned vehicle will qualify as such, but just about anyone can file an abandoned vehicle if they are able to meet their state’s abandoned vehicle requirements. If you’re an individual who has an abandoned vehicle on private property, check your state’s abandoned vehicle laws to see if your situation qualifies.
For example, in Indiana, to request a junk vehicle without a certificate of title, you must have attempted to contact the prior owner with a certified letter. After contacting the prior owner, the applicant must provide proof of lien release if applicable, complete abandoned motor vehicle forms, and state how the vehicle came into your possession. If the vehicle is determined to be abandoned after these documents are submitted, the applicant must then dispose of the vehicle.
These methods of title recovery are tedious, time-consuming, and can be challenging to navigate. Before pursuing one of these methods, determine if your situation calls for it and check your state’s timeline. Many times vehicles are able to be titled using a different method such as a bonded title. If you’re looking to file a mechanic’s lien, storage lien, or abandoned vehicle, Florida Lien Services, LLC may be able to help. Get in touch with us today at Info@FloridaLienServices.com and learn more about how we can help you file.
Our Abandoned Cars Title Services makes it easy to get the title. Our Lien Experts can handle everything for you from A to Z. All fees get recuperated. Florida Lien Services, LLC will get you paid or get the title for you within 30-45 days guaranteed if you qualify!