Seizure and impoundment of vehicle for failure to surrender license plates and certificate of registration upon suspension of registration.
1. A peace officer at the scene of an accident involving a motor vehicle shall, by radio, request that the information on file with the Department be checked regarding the validity of the registration for each motor vehicle involved in the accident. If he is informed that the registration of a motor vehicle involved in the accident has been suspended pursuant to any provision of chapter 485 of NRS, he shall determine whether the license plates and certificate of registration for the motor vehicle have been surrendered as required by NRS 485.320. If the license plates and certificate have not been surrendered, the peace officer shall:
(a) Issue a traffic citation in the manner provided in NRS 484.799 charging the registered owner with a violation of NRS 485.320 and 485.330; and
(b) Without a warrant, seize and take possession of the motor vehicle and cause it to be towed and impounded until the owner claims it by:
(1) Presenting proof that the vehicle’s registration has been reinstated by the Department; and
(2) Paying the cost of the towing and impoundment.
2. Neither the peace officer nor the governmental entity which employs him is civilly liable for any damage to the vehicle that occurs after the vehicle is seized, but before the towing process begins.
Last modified: February 25, 2006