So, my car got impounded because I let someone without a license drive it. In the car, I had my husband’s ashes (he passed on Jan 7, 2024) and our wedding picture, along with a really nice sound system. I told the impound lot multiple times about these things when I went to try and get them back, but they gave me the runaround. First, they wouldn’t let me in because I didn’t have my ID, but they still took the title. Next time, they said I’d need money. By the time I got back the third time, they had stripped the car, sold it, and said they threw all my stuff away. I’m devastated. Has anyone else been through something like this? What can I even do now?
That’s awful. I’m so sorry you’re dealing with this. Did they give you any paperwork or notice about the sale?
Tate said:
That’s awful. I’m so sorry you’re dealing with this. Did they give you any paperwork or notice about the sale?
No, nothing at all. They didn’t even let me know before they sold it. I’m just finding out piece by piece.
Tate said:
That’s awful. I’m so sorry you’re dealing with this. Did they give you any paperwork or notice about the sale?
Wait… so they sold your car without notifying you? That can’t be legal. Have you looked into Oregon’s laws about this?
Tate said:
That’s awful. I’m so sorry you’re dealing with this. Did they give you any paperwork or notice about the sale?
Not yet, but someone suggested I check the impound and lien laws. I’ll start there.
This is so messed up. They’re supposed to let you get personal items out first, no matter what. Did they explain why they didn’t?
Zahari said:
This is so messed up. They’re supposed to let you get personal items out first, no matter what. Did they explain why they didn’t?
They just kept making excuses. First, it was my missing ID. Then it was about money. I was so upset, I didn’t even know how to fight back.
Zahari said:
This is so messed up. They’re supposed to let you get personal items out first, no matter what. Did they explain why they didn’t?
What do you mean by ID? Couldn’t they just match your name on the title to prove it’s yours?
Zahari said:
This is so messed up. They’re supposed to let you get personal items out first, no matter what. Did they explain why they didn’t?
Yeah, you’d think so. But they refused to let me in without an actual photo ID on me that day.
I hate to say this, but it sounds like they were just looking for an excuse to take the valuables. Stripping the car and selling it is shady.
Mika said:
I hate to say this, but it sounds like they were just looking for an excuse to take the valuables. Stripping the car and selling it is shady.
It definitely feels that way. They didn’t even try to call me or let me know my stuff was being thrown out.
Mika said:
I hate to say this, but it sounds like they were just looking for an excuse to take the valuables. Stripping the car and selling it is shady.
They legally have to notify you before selling a car. Did they send anything to your address?
Mika said:
I hate to say this, but it sounds like they were just looking for an excuse to take the valuables. Stripping the car and selling it is shady.
Nope, not a single thing. It’s like they wanted me out of the way so they could do what they wanted.
I’d file a complaint with the state. This sounds like a violation of Oregon law. You could probably take them to court too.
Nico said:
I’d file a complaint with the state. This sounds like a violation of Oregon law. You could probably take them to court too.
I think I might have to. I just don’t know where to start with that kind of process.
Nico said:
I’d file a complaint with the state. This sounds like a violation of Oregon law. You could probably take them to court too.
Start by filing a formal complaint with the Department of Transportation or whoever regulates tow companies in your state. They’ll investigate.
Nico said:
I’d file a complaint with the state. This sounds like a violation of Oregon law. You could probably take them to court too.
Thanks, I’ll look into that. Hopefully, they’ll take this seriously.
Honestly, I’d try small claims court. If they didn’t follow the rules, you could get compensated for your stuff and the emotional damage.
Ellis said:
Honestly, I’d try small claims court. If they didn’t follow the rules, you could get compensated for your stuff and the emotional damage.
That’s a good idea. I’ve never done anything like that before though. Is it hard to file?
Ellis said:
Honestly, I’d try small claims court. If they didn’t follow the rules, you could get compensated for your stuff and the emotional damage.
It’s not too hard. You just need some basic evidence—like the title, dates you went there, and what they said. Write everything down.