Bill > LD1846

This bill amends the law governing notifications when a vehicle is towed or left on private property. It requires the property owner to notify the vehicle owner and lienholder (if applicable) within 48 hours of taking a vehicle into custody, using certified mail. The notification must include detailed information about the vehicle, such as its make, model, vehicle identification number (VIN), registration plates, the date it was taken into custody, circumstances of possession, an itemization of charges, and the vehicle's condition. Additionally, the property owner must report to the Secretary of State within 14 days, providing similar details and proof of notification to the vehicle owner. The Secretary of State will then send a notice to the vehicle owner and lienholder by regular mail, informing them about the vehicle's status under the abandoned vehicle law. The bill also establishes fee limits for storage, capping daily storage charges at a reasonable rate with a maximum of $1,500 for a 30-day period. Furthermore, the property owner must provide a detailed, itemized invoice for towing charges, and failure to do so means the vehicle owner is not required to pay those charges. Importantly, any failure to comply with these requirements is considered an unfair trade practice.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1846&snum=132