Texas Basic Peace Officer Certification Practice Exam

A vehicle may be considered abandoned if it remains on a highway for more than how many hours?

1. 12

2. 24

3. 36

4. 48

The correct answer is: 48

A vehicle may be considered abandoned if it remains on a highway for more than 48 hours. This definition is crucial for law enforcement, as it helps determine when action should be taken regarding the removal and disposal of vehicles that may pose a safety hazard or block traffic. Under Texas law, a vehicle that is left unattended on a public highway for an extended period can create dangerous conditions, such as obstructing the flow of traffic or becoming a target for vandalism. In this context, specifying a time limit ensures that law enforcement has clear guidelines to address abandoned vehicles, protecting road users and maintaining public safety. This timeframe provides a balance between allowing vehicle owners a reasonable period to retrieve their vehicles while also ensuring that public thoroughfares remain clear and safe for all users. Understanding this law helps peace officers enforce regulations effectively while also adhering to local codes regarding abandoned vehicles.