What can I do if someone has my car and won’t return it?

I let someone borrow my vehicle, but now they’re not answering any of my calls or messages. They live in another state, and I’m not sure where the truck is anymore. What should I do to get it back? I’ve contacted local police, but they told me to talk to a lawyer. Anyone dealt with something like this before?

That sounds frustrating. Did the police give you any advice on what to do next? I think they might have suggested contacting a lawyer because they know how tricky these situations can get.

Keegan said:
That sounds frustrating. Did the police give you any advice on what to do next? I think they might have suggested contacting a lawyer because they know how tricky these situations can get.

Yeah, it seems like the legal route is the way to go. I think sending a letter asking for the vehicle back is a good first step. You can also report it as stolen if they refuse to return it.

@Archer
Wait, do you have to report it to the police in the state where the person lives or where the vehicle is? I’m confused.

Emory said:
@Archer
Wait, do you have to report it to the police in the state where the person lives or where the vehicle is? I’m confused.

Good question! You should report it to the local police where the vehicle was last, and then also to the police in the other state. That way, both states are aware of the situation.

Yeah, I had something similar happen, and the lawyer helped me figure it out. It’s good that you contacted the police. The next step is probably sending that letter asking for the truck back.

Cairo said:
Yeah, I had something similar happen, and the lawyer helped me figure it out. It’s good that you contacted the police. The next step is probably sending that letter asking for the truck back.

Thanks! I’ll try sending the letter first, then report it stolen if that doesn’t work. Do I need to file the report in both states?

@Gale
Yeah, definitely. You should report it in both states, just to cover all your bases. That way, law enforcement in both places are aware of it.

I’m sorry to hear that. Just a heads up, if the person has your truck for a while and isn’t responding, it might be seen as theft, especially if they’re refusing to return it. It’s good you’re taking action now.

@Darby
Yeah, I’m getting worried it’s just gone now. I really hope this all gets resolved soon. Thanks for the advice!

I’d recommend you also consider getting a lawyer’s help if you haven’t already. They might have more specific advice based on where the person is now. Good luck!

Keir said:
I’d recommend you also consider getting a lawyer’s help if you haven’t already. They might have more specific advice based on where the person is now. Good luck!

Thanks! I’ve already reached out to a lawyer, so I’m hoping to get this sorted soon.