Glynn County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Glynn

Being arrested for a DUI in Glynn County, Georgia (GA) is a stressful experience. On top of dealing with the legal ramifications, you also have to figure out what happened to your vehicle. Often, vehicles are impounded following a DUI arrest. This guide provides immediate, practical information on how to retrieve your impounded vehicle in Glynn County. Acting quickly is crucial to minimize costs.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

Following a DUI arrest, law enforcement typically impounds your vehicle for several reasons. This ensures public safety by preventing you from driving under the influence again immediately. It also allows the police to secure the vehicle as potential evidence in your case. Don't panic; you can get your car back.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is locating your vehicle. It's likely at an official impound lot contracted by the Glynn County Police Department or Sheriff's Office.

Official Impound Lots in Glynn

Unfortunately, we do not yet have a database of specific impound lots used by Glynn County law enforcement. However, you can quickly find out where your car is by following the steps below.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Call Glynn Police/Sheriff: Start by contacting the Glynn County Police Department or Sheriff's Office.
• You can usually find their contact information on the Glynn County government website.
• Reference your case number: When you call, provide your name and case number (if you have it) to help them locate your vehicle quickly.
• Most vehicles towed within 24 hours of arrest: Your vehicle is typically towed to an impound lot within 24 hours of your arrest.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your car is, gather the necessary documents for retrieval. Missing documents can delay the process and increase storage fees.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or someone retrieving the vehicle on your behalf) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration: You need the vehicle's current registration.
• Proof of insurance: Provide proof of current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• Cash or credit card for fees: Impound lots typically accept cash or major credit cards. Contact the specific impound lot to confirm accepted payment methods.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or you don't have a valid license:

• Have someone else pick it up: A licensed driver can retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, written authorization from you allowing them to pick up the vehicle, and the vehicle's title or registration to prove ownership.

Costs & Fees in Glynn

Understanding the costs associated with vehicle impoundment is crucial. Fees accumulate quickly, so prompt action is essential.

Typical Fees

• Towing fee: Expect to pay between $150 and $300 for the initial towing fee.
• Daily storage: Daily storage fees typically range from $20 to $50 per day.
• Administrative fees: There may be additional administrative fees, which can vary.
• Release fee: A release fee may also be charged.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate daily. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes to retrieve your vehicle. Act immediately!

Payment Methods

Contact the specific impound lot to confirm accepted payment methods. Most accept cash and major credit cards. Some may accept debit cards or offer payment plans.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when it comes to vehicle impoundment.

Within 24 Hours

Ideally, retrieve your car within the first 24 hours to minimize daily storage fees.

After 30 Days

If the vehicle remains unclaimed after 30 days, the impound lot may have the legal right to sell it at a lien sale to recover their costs. You will lose your vehicle if this happens.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're struggling to afford the impound fees, explore these options:

Options

• Borrow from family/friends: Seek assistance from trusted family members or friends.
• Payment plans: Inquire with the impound lot about potential payment plans. Some may offer installment options.
• Sign vehicle over to impound lot: As a last resort, you can sign the vehicle over to the impound lot. This avoids accumulating further debt but results in losing your car.

What NOT to Do

• Don't wait: Procrastination only increases the fees.
• Don't abandon the vehicle: Abandoning the vehicle can lead to further legal complications.

Special Situations

Certain circumstances may complicate the retrieval process.

If Your Car Was Evidence

If the police are holding your vehicle as evidence, you'll need a release authorization from the investigating officer or the court before the impound lot will release it.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

If someone else is the registered owner of the vehicle, they have the right to retrieve it, regardless of your situation. They'll need to provide proof of ownership (title or registration) and a valid driver's license.

After Retrieval

Once you've retrieved your vehicle:

Check Your Vehicle

Carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.

Document Any Damage Immediately

Take photos and document any damage immediately.

Report Damage to Impound Lot Manager

Report any damage to the impound lot manager and file a written complaint. This is crucial for pursuing any potential claims for compensation.

Glynn Impound Lot Locations

Unfortunately, we do not have a list of specific Glynn County impound lot locations at this time. Please follow the instructions above for contacting the Glynn County Police Department or Sheriff's Office to locate your vehicle. Check back with dui.guide for updated information as we build our local resources.

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and not legal advice. Consult with a qualified attorney in Glynn County, GA, for specific legal advice regarding your DUI case and vehicle impoundment.