License suspended

[MRParker]

DMV is the biggest thief in Virginia. My situation is strange. I sold a vehicle March 21, 2009. It was not operational at the time. The engine blew out on the side of highway 58. I called one of those Cash for cars folks, who came and picked up the car. I signed the title over to them. 8 months later I get pulled over. The office notifies me that my license is suspended. When I go to DMV they tell me it is because I didnt have insurance on a 94 Pontiac Grand Prix on June 25, 2009(which I signed the title over to the cash for cars folks). I track down the person I sold the car to and get a notarized letter stating vehicle, VIN, and date of sale and return to DMV. At that time I am notified that the vehicle has been demolished and because of that DMV cannot alter the vehicles records. Now in order to get my license back I have to pay 500 uninsured motorist fee on a vehicle I didnt even own, drive or otherwise. While at the DMV I am told to file for a hearing, which I do, and the online application states I will recieve notice of the hearing within 5 business days. 6 weeks later I have heard nothing and I face 10 days in JAIL due to new laws in VA because of a vehicle I HAVE NOT OWNED SINCE MARCH! What can I do? I cannot believe this state. I am seriously considering filing legal actions due to this issue. It has affected my employment, ability to go anywhere, and now has the ability to affect my freedom. Any suggestions? I cannot come up with 500 to pay this fee and wait two years to have it refunded.

 

[shellybelly]

yes, it sucks doesn't it? This similiar situation happened in PA. They told me that regardless of whether you own the vehicle anymore or not, you MUST call the DMV to tell them you no longer own the car.

My cousin bought a truck from us and we didn't bother calling the DMV to tell them that we sold it. When we removed our insurance and the insurance company reported it to the DMV, they automatically issued the notice thru the VIN and my cousin got pulled over and they towed his truck. The police stated for no payment of insurance.

I know , it is crazy. I think this is a lazy system.

 

[jharris352]

I use to practice in VA I can agree with you about the DMV. I would write a certified letter to the head of the DMV explaining the situation. With any luck they will put it in the right place and fix it. As silly as it sounds I would contact your State legislator also and ask for their help. If all that doesn't work you need to file a Declaratory Complaint. You are probably not going to be able to do it yourself you will need an attorney. You will however be able to recoup the costs when you win. Yes you will win.

Try the letter first, copy it to your Legislator and Senator. Call the offices of both the Legislator and Senator to make sure they are doing something. Wait.

If nothing happens go to an attorney about an action. Good luck.

 

[mightymoose]

This will be a headache for you, but can be fixed if you stay on top of it.

Yes, you are supposed to notify the DMV when you sell your car so these things don't happen.