ORLANDO, Fla. – We’ve all been there — one moment, you’re confidently parking your car, and the next, it’s gone.
That’s exactly what happened to Allen, who sent in a question asking, “I may or may not have parked in a tow zone… my car is gone. How do I find it?”
First things first — don’t panic! The key to avoiding a towing nightmare is to know the parking rules of the lot you’re using.
Whether it’s an apartment complex, a homeowners association community (HOA) or a public parking garage, each place has specific regulations. Ignoring them (even accidentally) can land your car in a tow yard.
So, where’s your car?
Luckily, tow truck drivers are required to log every vehicle they remove, and local authorities have access to that information. Instead of aimlessly searching, call your local non-emergency police number. They can check the system and confirm if your car was towed, where it was taken, and what steps you need to take to retrieve it.
Lesson learned?
Always double-check parking signs and restrictions before leaving your car unattended. A quick glance at the rules could save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress!
Stay informed, park smart, and keep those wheels where they belong!
If you have a traffic question for Trooper Steve, submit it here.