How long must an abandoned vehicle be left on the highway before it can be towed?

The time frame within which an abandoned vehicle can be towed from the highway is typically set by state laws or local ordinances, which usually stipulate that a vehicle must be left unattended for a specified duration before it can be considered abandoned and eligible for towing. In many jurisdictions, this period is commonly established at two hours.

This means that if a vehicle has not moved or been attended to for two hours on the highway, law enforcement or towing authorities have the authority to intervene and have the vehicle towed away. This policy helps ensure that vehicles are not left obstructing traffic for extended periods, thus maintaining roadway safety and accessibility.

Understanding this regulation is important for law enforcement officers, as it aids them in making informed decisions regarding vehicle abandonment and ensures compliance with local laws related to towing procedures.