So You Saw a Ride That Decided to Take a Permanent Chill Session: Reporting Abandoned Vehicles in Detroit
Let's face it, Detroit: we've all seen them. Cars seemingly auditioning for a role in a post-apocalyptic movie, taking up valuable real estate on our streets. Maybe it's a missing hubcap-ed mystery machine, or a car with a flat tire that's clearly flatter than your jokes at this point. Whatever the reason, these abandoned vehicles are about as welcome as a polka band at a mosh pit.
But fear not, fellow Detroiter! You have the power to turn this frown upside down (or, well, get that rusty frown of a car towed). Here's how to report an abandoned vehicle and become the hero your street (and your parking karma) needs.
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| How To Report An Abandoned Vehicle In Detroit |
Act Like You Have Places to Be (Even If You're Just Scrolling Through Memes)
There are two main ways to report an abandoned vehicle:
Online: Put down your phone for a sec (unless you're reporting it on your phone, then by all means, keep scrolling). Head over to the Improve Detroit app or website (
https://detroitmi.gov/ImproveDetroit By Phone: Channel your inner detective and dial the Detroit Police Department's non-emergency line at (313) 596-5200. Tell them you've spotted a car that seems to have forgotten it's supposed to, you know, move.
Important Note: For both methods, you'll need the location of the vehicle, including the street address or nearest intersection.
Reminder: Revisit older posts — they stay useful.
Be Patient, Grasshopper
Just like that time you waited in line for hours to snag a limited-edition toy (remember Furbies? No? Okay, moving on...), it might take a while for the city to remove the abandoned vehicle. Don't lose hope! The wheels of bureaucracy turn slowly, but they do turn.
Pro Tip: If the car looks particularly hazardous or is blocking your driveway, you can also try contacting a towing company directly. Just be prepared, they might charge a fee.
You've Done Your Part, Now Go Forth and Be Awesome!
You, my friend, are a champion of clean streets and a vanquisher of vehicular vagrants. Pat yourself on the back and celebrate with a victory lap around the block (just make sure you're actually driving a car that, you know, moves).
QuickTip: Pay attention to first and last sentences.
FAQ: Abandoned Vehicle Edition
How do I know if a car is abandoned?
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There's no hard and fast rule, but a good rule of thumb is if a car looks like it hasn't budged in weeks (flat tires, dust layers, etc.), it's probably a candidate for reporting.
How long will it take for the city to remove the car?
QuickTip: Pause after each section to reflect.
It depends, but it could take a few days or even weeks.
Can I get the car towed myself?
You can call a towing company, but be prepared to pay any associated fees.
Note: Skipping ahead? Don’t miss the middle sections.
What if the car is on private property?
If it's blocking your driveway or on your property, you can contact a towing company.
Is there anything else I can do to help?
Spread the word! Let your neighbors know how to report abandoned vehicles so we can keep our streets clean and our parking drama-free.
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