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For one reason or another, the authorities may arrest you at an otherwise routine traffic stop. When that happens, you might be worried about the fate of your beloved car, SUV, truck, or motorcycle. So, what happens to your car when you’re arrested by the police at a traffic stop?

If you are arrested at a traffic stop, your car will likely be impounded by the authorities

An arrest is a life-altering event. At the very least, it’ll ruin your day. Furthermore, if police arrest you at a traffic stop, officers will likely summon a tow truck to transport your vehicle to an impound lot. After you post bail, should you still have a valid license, you can pay your fees to recover your car. 

However, an arrest isn’t the only reason a police officer may order the impounding of your vehicle. For instance, if police suspect the vehicle you are driving of involvement in a crime, they may impound it. Moreover, if you leave your car in an area that jeopardizes public safety, authorities may tow and impound your vehicle.

After officers impound your vehicle, you’ll have to recover it. Unfortunately for you, that means paying fees beyond any legal fees. Don’t fret, though; many agencies, like the Kentucky Transport Cabinet, require a minimum time frame, in this case 45 days, from the initial impounding and notice before they can repurpose or sell your vehicle at auction. 

Still, depending on the circumstances of your arrest and the status of your vehicle, a law enforcement officer (LEO) may exercise some leniency. For instance, rather than calling for a tow, the LEO may allow a passenger, like a licensed family member or friend, to drive your car away from the scene. That is, if your car is in working order. 

This is optimal, as your vehicle may sustain damage in the impounding process. That, and recovering your vehicle from an official impound lot or yard will require fees. Hell, depending on the tow charges and lot fees, you could be looking at hundreds of dollars to recover your vehicle.

Your best bet is to ensure that you don’t have any outstanding warrants or break the law behind the wheel. Frankly, the police can’t impound your vehicle without due cause. So don’t give them one.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).