Legal Question in Traffic Law in District of Columbia
My D.C. tags are lost, but I am still responsible -- trapped!
Over two weeks ago I donated my car, registered in D.C., to a charity via an auto auction company. I was told to remove my D.C. tags from the car. But the plate bolts were rusted solidly to the frame, and having only simple tools, I couldn't get them off. I called the auto auction company, and they said (over the phone): ''Don't worry. We'll cut them off here at our shop and mail them to you.'' So I let them pick up the car from a Maryland street at the scheduled time. But since then they have not returned the plates, saying �they�re working on it�. When pressed they say the car has been sold and that they are trying to track down the plates.
Unfortunately I am liable for whatever happens now. The D.C. DMV would not even discuss my case with me, and they simply said it�s my fault and that I will be liable for whatever infractions are incurred with the plates. They suggested I get a police report. But the Montgomery Co. police refused to file a report, because the plates have not actually been stolen. They said I am stuck dealing with the auto auction company. The auto auction company also suggested I report the tags as stolen. Help! How do I clear my name from these D.C. plates?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: My D.C. tags are lost, but I am still responsible -- trapped!
As you are probably already aware, significant penalties apply to not returning tags. You need to resolve this matter. In Maryland a daily fine applies and it can be hefty.
Whether the plates were stolen or not is largely irrelevant. The plates have, at a minimum, been converted or misappropriated. The auto auction stands in a different position in that they are qualified as experts in the business. They know what they should be doing and ought to do it promptly.
It appears that written notification is needed so that you can proceed. Contact an attorney.
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