Washington § 46.55.085 - Law enforcement impound — Unauthorized vehicle in right-of-way.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 46.55.085 — Law enforcement impound — Unauthorized vehicle in right-of-way., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 46.55.085. Law enforcement impound — Unauthorized vehicle in right-of-way.

(1) A law enforcement officer discovering an unauthorized vehicle left within a highway right-of-way shall attach to the vehicle a readily visible notification sticker. The sticker shall contain the following information:
(a) The date and time the sticker was attached;
(b) The identity of the officer;
(c) A statement that if the vehicle is not removed within twenty-four hours from the time the sticker is attached, the vehicle may be taken into custody and stored at the owner's expense;
(d) A statement that if the vehicle is not redeemed as provided in RCW 46.55.120, the registered owner will have committed the traffic infraction of littering—abandoned vehicle; and
(e) The address and telephone number where additional information may be obtained.
(2) If the vehicle has current Washington registration plates, the officer shall check the records to learn the identity of the last owner of record. The officer or his or her department shall make a reasonable effort to contact the owner by telephone in order to give the owner the information on the notification sticker.
(3) If the vehicle is not removed within twenty-four hours from the time the notification sticker is attached, the law enforcement officer may take custody of the vehicle and provide for the vehicle's removal to a place of safety. A vehicle that does not pose a safety hazard may remain on the roadside for more than twenty-four hours if the owner or operator is unable to remove it from the place where it is located and so notifies law enforcement officials and requests assistance.
(4) For the purposes of this section a place of safety includes the business location of a registered tow truck operator.
[ 2010 c 8 s 9062; 2002 c 279 s 6; 1993 c 121 s 1; 1987 c 311 s 6. Formerly RCW 46.52.170 and 46.52.180.]

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 46.55.085

What does Revised Code of Washington § 46.55.085 cover?

Section 46.55.085 ("Law enforcement impound — Unauthorized vehicle in right-of-way.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 46.55.085?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 46.55.085" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 46.55.085 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

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