Category: Traffic Offenses · Statute: F.S. 715.07 · Source: Florida Legislature
Understanding Abandoned Vehicle in Florida
In Florida, an abandoned vehicle is legally defined under Chapter 715 of the Florida Statutes, which regulates the towing and storage of unattended property. A vehicle is classified as abandoned if it is left on public property, such as a highway shoulder or municipal right-of-way, for more than 48 hours without authorization. On private property, a vehicle is considered abandoned immediately if it is parked without the property owner's consent. Local law enforcement or authorized towing companies can legally remove these vehicles after posting a statutory notice, which gives the owner a brief window to reclaim the property before it is impounded.
While abandoning a standard passenger car typically results in civil towing fees, administrative liens, and the potential loss of the vehicle, certain circumstances elevate the act to a criminal offense. Under Florida law, if a vehicle is abandoned in a manner that blocks a public roadway, creates an immediate traffic hazard, or contains hazardous materials, the registered owner can face misdemeanor charges. Furthermore, if the vehicle was abandoned to cover up a crime, such as a hit-and-run or grand theft auto, the registered owner will face intense police scrutiny and potential felony charges related to the underlying offense.
Bail and Pretrial Release for Abandonment Charges
For standard municipal towing violations, arrests are rare, and bail is not required. However, if you are arrested for criminally abandoning a vehicle—such as leaving a hazardous vehicle on a highway or abandoning a vehicle involved in a felony crash—you will be booked into a county jail. Pretrial release is typically set according to the local county bond schedule. A Florida bail bond agent can post a surety bond to secure your release while you resolve the underlying criminal charges and work to recover your vehicle from the impound lot.