Towing Issues: car towed from condo complex, small claims court, visitor spaces


Question
my car was parked at condo complex where i was visiting friend of mine.  car stayed there at nights of 1/26/2010 and 1/27/2010 and on 27th i got a note saying that im in violation of some sort.  nothing else was explained.  i didn't pard car there on 28th and 29th  and i came back there on 30th and that night car was towed. i had to pay $325 to get it back and got late to work because i didn't have a car and i had to get a ride...  condo complex rules states that visitors and short term guests are allowed to park on designated ares and thats what i did. im strongly considering to contact my attorney in regard of that matter.
let me know what u think about it.

Answer
a lot of condo complex's have rules on length of stay for vehicles and that is most likely happened.  

Now it would appear that there is a security or patrol service which makes lists of vehicles parked in visitor spaces for record keeping and that most likely is what happened.
You do need to investigate the complex and see if you can get a copy of the rules and regulations in regards to parking and then see if the designated spaces meet the state laws in regards to signs and other markings. That is a key here, and while pictures are great remember that there are most likely pictures showing where your vehicle was parked showing the violation.

As to what to do, well first of all since you did not mention what city or state you are in, so I can not provide specific information on laws which would apply in this case.

Now as to talking to your attorney, that might be good but expensive. You have the ability always use small claims court to recover the money you paid out, if the judge agrees with your information.

The $325 does not sound bad, as most likely there is some other charges other than towing and mileage, Such as storage and the possibility either some special equipment such as dollies or an after hours release - gate fee.

Hope this helps.