If your motorcycle is missing in New York City, there are usually two main possibilities: it was towed by the city or it was stolen. Knowing how to figure out which situation you are in and what to do next can save you time, stress, and money.
Why Your Motorcycle Might Be Missing
1. It Was Towed
The NYPD tows motorcycles for several reasons:
- Parking in a restricted area (bus lane, bike lane, sidewalk, near a fire hydrant)
- Blocking a driveway or crosswalk
- Parking during street cleaning hours or in a temporary no-parking zone
- Expired registration or inspection
- Having unpaid tickets linked to your license plate
If any of these apply, there is a good chance your motorcycle was towed to an NYPD impound lot.
2. It Was Stolen
Motorcycle theft is unfortunately common in NYC. Thieves often target bikes parked in low-traffic areas or those that are not secured with strong locks or chains. If your motorcycle is not at the impound lot, you should treat the situation as theft.
What To Do Step by Step
Step 1: Double-Check the Area
Before calling anyone, make sure you are looking in the right spot. In a busy city, it is easy to confuse one block with another.
Step 2: Call 311
Dial 311 and provide your license plate number. They will tell you if your motorcycle was towed and, if so, which impound lot it was taken to.
Step 3: If It Was Towed
- Ask for the exact location of the impound lot
- Bring your ID, registration, insurance, and proof of ownership
- Be prepared to pay towing and storage fees before your motorcycle is released
Step 4: If It Was Not Towed
- Call 911 immediately and report your motorcycle stolen
- Provide the make, model, color, license plate, VIN, and any unique features of your bike
- File a police report right away. This will help with recovery and insurance claims
Step 5: Contact Your Insurance Company
Let your insurance provider know whether the motorcycle was towed or stolen. If it was stolen, your claim will be processed faster with a police report on file.
Step 6: Take Preventative Measures for the Future
- Always lock your motorcycle with a heavy chain or disc lock
- Park in well-lit, busy areas
- Consider a GPS tracker so you can locate your bike if it is taken
- Stay on top of registration, inspection, and tickets to avoid unnecessary tows
Need Help With a Towed Motorcycle?
If your motorcycle ends up at an NYPD impound, retrieving it can be a hassle. MAD Transpo NYC offers professional motorcycle towing and recovery throughout the five boroughs.
Call us at 929-265-0526 or request a tow online to make the process simple and stress-free.