As a legal expert, it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the laws and regulations that govern a specific area. In this case, we will be discussing the laws surrounding abandoned vehicles on private property in Capitol Heights, MD.
The Definition of an Abandoned Vehicle
Before delving into the laws, it is important to first define what constitutes an abandoned vehicle. According to the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT), an abandoned vehicle is any motor vehicle that has been left unattended on public or private property for more than 48 hours. This definition also includes vehicles that are inoperable, wrecked, dismantled, or partially dismantled. It is important to note that this definition only applies to motor vehicles and does not include bicycles or other non-motorized vehicles.The Laws in Capitol Heights, MD
In Capitol Heights, MD, the laws regarding abandoned vehicles on private property are governed by the Prince George's County Code.According to Section 26-1-1 of the code, it is unlawful for any individual to abandon a vehicle on any public or private property within the county. This means that as a property owner in Capitol Heights, MD, it is your responsibility to ensure that there are no abandoned vehicles on your premises. If you do come across an abandoned vehicle on your property, it is your duty to take the necessary steps to have it removed.
Steps to Take for Removal of Abandoned Vehicles
If you do find an abandoned vehicle on your private property in Capitol Heights, MD, there are specific steps that you must follow in order to have it removed. These steps include:- Step 1: Contact the Prince George's County Police Department and report the abandoned vehicle. They will then send an officer to inspect the vehicle and determine if it meets the criteria for an abandoned vehicle.
- Step 2: If the vehicle is deemed abandoned, the police will issue a notice to the owner of the vehicle, giving them 10 days to remove it from your property.
- Step 3: If the owner fails to remove the vehicle within the given time frame, you can then contact a licensed towing company to have it removed.
The towing company will then take the vehicle to an impound lot.
- Step 4: Once the vehicle has been removed, you must notify the Prince George's County Police Department and provide them with the name and address of the towing company that removed the vehicle.
Penalties for Abandoning a Vehicle
In addition to facing penalties for abandoning a vehicle on private property, there are also penalties for abandoning a vehicle on public property in Capitol Heights, MD. According to Section 26-1-3 of the Prince George's County Code, anyone who abandons a vehicle on public property can face a fine of up to $500 or imprisonment for up to 60 days. If you are found guilty of abandoning a vehicle on private property, you could face a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment for up to 6 months. These penalties may also apply if you are the owner of the abandoned vehicle and fail to remove it from the private property within the given time frame.Conclusion
As a legal expert, it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the laws and regulations that govern a specific area.In Capitol Heights, MD, it is unlawful to abandon a vehicle on public or private property, and there are strict penalties in place for those who do so. If you own a property in Capitol Heights, MD, it is your responsibility to ensure that there are no abandoned vehicles on your premises. If you do come across an abandoned vehicle, it is important to follow the necessary steps for its removal in order to avoid any potential legal consequences.
