Franklin County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Franklin County

A DUI arrest is a stressful and confusing experience. On top of dealing with the legal implications, you're probably also wondering what happened to your car. In Franklin County, North Carolina, vehicles are often impounded after a DUI arrest to ensure public safety and prevent further potential offenses. This guide will provide you with the immediate, practical information you need to retrieve your vehicle as quickly and affordably as possible.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Franklin County, NC, your vehicle is typically impounded for several reasons:

• Public Safety: To prevent you from driving under the influence again immediately after your release.
• Investigation: The vehicle may be held as evidence in connection with your DUI case, although this is less common.
• Liability: Impounding ensures the vehicle isn't left abandoned, creating a hazard.

Understanding why your car was impounded is the first step in retrieving it. Now, let's get down to the practical steps.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding out where your vehicle is located is crucial for beginning the retrieval process.

Official Impound Lots in Franklin County

Unfortunately, specific impound lot data for Franklin County is currently unavailable. This section will be updated as soon as that information becomes available.

In the meantime, follow the steps below to locate your vehicle.

How to Find Your Vehicle

The quickest way to find your impounded vehicle in Franklin County is to contact the authorities involved in your arrest.

• Call Franklin County Police/Sheriff: Use the non-emergency line. You can typically find this number through the Franklin County government website or by searching online.
• Reference Your Case Number: Have your case number or arrest information ready when you call. This will help them locate your vehicle quickly.
• Vehicles Towed Quickly: Most vehicles are towed to an impound lot within 24 hours of the arrest.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Gathering the necessary documents and information beforehand will make the retrieval process much smoother.

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle Registration: Proof that the vehicle is registered.
• Proof of Insurance: Current insurance documentation for the vehicle.
• Cash or Credit Card for Fees: Impound lots typically accept these forms of payment. Check with the specific lot beforehand.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you'll need someone else to pick up the vehicle.

• Have Someone Else Pick It Up: A friend or family member with a valid driver's license can retrieve the car for you.
• They Need:
• Their valid driver's license
• Authorization from you (a signed letter stating they are authorized to retrieve the vehicle)
• Vehicle title or registration in your name (or proof of ownership)

Costs & Fees in Franklin County

Understanding the costs associated with impounding is vital. These fees can add up quickly, so acting fast is essential.

Typical Fees

IMPORTANT: These are estimates. Actual fees can vary. Contact the specific impound lot for accurate pricing.

• Towing Fee: $150 - $300
• Daily Storage Fee: $20 - $50 per day
• Administrative Fees: $[To Be Determined Based on Data]
• Release Fee: $[To Be Determined Based on Data]

IMPORTANT: Fees accumulate daily. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes to get your car back.

Payment Methods

[To Be Determined Based on Data - This information will be added as impound lot data becomes available. In the meantime, be prepared with both cash and a credit card.]

Timeline

Understanding the timeline is critical to avoid further complications and costs.

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 for an extended period (usually around 30 days), the impound lot has the right to sell it at a lien sale to recover their costs. Don't let this happen!

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Facing unexpected expenses after a DUI arrest can be overwhelming. Here are some potential options:

Options

• Borrow from Family/Friends: This is often the quickest and easiest solution.
• Payment Plans: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, but this is not guaranteed. Inquire directly with the lot.
• Sign Vehicle Over to Impound Lot: As a last resort, you can sign the vehicle's title over to the impound lot to avoid accruing further debt. However, you will lose the vehicle.

What NOT to Do

• Don't Wait: Fees accumulate rapidly. Procrastination will only make the situation worse.
• Don't Abandon the Vehicle: Abandoning the vehicle can lead to additional legal issues and fines.

Special Situations

Certain situations may require additional steps or considerations.

If Your Car Was Evidence

If the police are holding your car as evidence, you'll need a release authorization from the investigating officer before you can retrieve it. Contact the Franklin County Police Department or Sheriff's Office to inquire about the release process.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

If the vehicle is registered to someone else (e.g., a parent, spouse, or leasing company), the registered owner has the right to retrieve the vehicle, regardless of your DUI arrest. They will need to provide proof of ownership (title or registration) and their valid driver's license.

After Retrieval

Once you've retrieved your vehicle, take these important steps:

Check Your Vehicle

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

Document Any Damage Immediately

Take photos of any damage you find.

Report Damage to Impound Lot Manager

Report the damage to the impound lot manager as soon as possible. Get a written acknowledgment of your report. This will be important if you need to file a claim for damages.

Franklin County Impound Lot Locations

[This section will be populated with a detailed list of Franklin County impound lot locations, including addresses, phone numbers, hours of operation, and map references, as soon as that data becomes available. Please check back soon for updates.]

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. It is essential to consult with an attorney to discuss the specific details of your DUI case.