Aurora City Council Considers Impounding Unregistered and Uninsured Vehicles
The Aurora City Council is set to discuss a new proposal that could lead to the impoundment of vehicles lacking proper registration and insurance. The proposal, introduced by Council Member Stephanie Hancock, aims to empower police officers to impound vehicles for various offenses, particularly focusing on the surge of unregistered and uninsured vehicles on the city’s roads.
According to the ordinance, the number of vehicles with expired license plates or temporary tags has increased significantly since the pandemic. Hancock’s proposal argues that many drivers of these vehicles also lack valid driver’s licenses or insurance, making them a danger to public safety. The ordinance would authorize police officers to remove such vehicles from public streets and tow them to the nearest garage or impound facility.
Expanded Impoundment Criteria
The proposal outlines several scenarios beyond registration and insurance violations where vehicles could be impounded:
- Traffic Obstruction: Vehicles left unattended on bridges, tunnels, or in a manner that obstructs traffic could be towed.
- Safety Concerns: If a vehicle is deemed a substantial threat to public health, safety, or welfare, it may be impounded.
- Abandoned Vehicles: Cars suspected of being abandoned or stolen, as well as those containing evidence of a crime, are also subject to impoundment.
- Emergency Situations: In events like fires, floods, or other emergencies, vehicles may be towed if deemed necessary for public safety.
- Parking Violations: Cars parked in fire lanes, tow-away zones, or during street cleaning and maintenance could be impounded.
The ordinance also targets vehicles involved in hit-and-run incidents, those suspected of carrying stolen goods, or vehicles with invalid or expired license plates.
Next Steps
Even if the City Council gives initial approval during its study session, the proposal will require two additional approvals at regular council meetings before it can become law. If passed, this ordinance would give Aurora police officers more authority to keep unregistered, uninsured, and unsafe vehicles off the roads, ultimately aiming to enhance public safety and reduce traffic hazards.
