- Do not touch the vehicle. If the vehicle was used in the commission of a crime, you might disturb vital evidence if you touch it. However, it is important you write down the type of vehicle it is, including the make and model as well as the license number of the vehicle. By doing this, you provide as much information as possible to local authorities.
- Depending on the requirements of your local police or sheriff's department, you may call to report an abandoned vehicle. Since an abandoned vehicle is not an emergency, do not call 911. Instead, look up the direct number for the police or sheriff's department in your telephone directory and speak with an officer to determine what the procedures are. In some cases, an officer may take a report over the phone. In other cities, you may be required to go to the police or sheriff's department and fill out a form to report the vehicle.
- Some cities require you call specific entities created for the purpose of handling abandoned vehicles. For example, in New York City, citizens are required to call the New York City Citizen Service Center (311) to report abandon vehicles. In this report, you are required to provide physical information about the vehicle, such as type and license number, as well as the exact location of the car so city employees can pick it up. If you are unsure of which city office to call regarding an abandoned vehicle, call your local city hall; staff members can direct you to the appropriate office.
- Many communities have their own neighborhood watch groups and leaders. If this is the case in your neighborhood, you may be required to follow specific rules for reporting abandoned vehicles in your neighborhood. If you know your neighborhood is governed by a community group such as this but are unsure of what procedures to follow, contact one of the community leaders to determine what is required. It may be that all you are supposed to do is report the vehicle to the group and let the group handle the issue after that.
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