Wayne County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Wayne County

Being arrested for a DUI in Wayne County, North Carolina, is stressful enough. On top of everything else, your vehicle was likely impounded. This guide provides immediate, practical information on how to retrieve your car as quickly and efficiently as possible. We understand this is a difficult time, and we aim to help you navigate the process.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

Following a DUI arrest in Wayne County, your vehicle is typically impounded for safety and legal reasons. This prevents you from driving while impaired and allows law enforcement to process your case. Knowing the steps to retrieve your vehicle is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications.

Where Is Your Car?

Locating your vehicle is the first step. Here's how to find out where it was towed:

Official Impound Lots in Wayne County

Unfortunately, we do not currently have a database of impound lots in Wayne County. We are working hard to gather this information and will update this guide as soon as possible.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Until our database is populated, here's the best way to locate your vehicle:

• Call Wayne County Police/Sheriff: Contact the Wayne County Police Department or the Wayne County Sheriff's Office directly. You can find their number online.
• Reference your case number: When you call, have your case number (if you have it) or the information from your arrest readily available. This will help them locate your vehicle quickly.
• Most vehicles towed within 24 hours of arrest: Your car was likely towed within 24 hours of your arrest, so act quickly.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Gathering the necessary documents will streamline the retrieval process.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or someone with valid license): You, or the person retrieving the vehicle, must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration: Proof of ownership of the vehicle.
• Proof of insurance: Current insurance documentation for the vehicle.
• Cash or credit card for fees: Be prepared to pay towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot retrieve the vehicle yourself. Here's what to do:

• Have someone else pick it up: A licensed driver can retrieve the car on your behalf.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, written authorization from you (stating they have permission to pick up your vehicle), and the vehicle's title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Wayne County

Understanding the costs involved is vital to planning your finances. Remember, fees accumulate daily, so act quickly!

Typical Fees

• Towing fee: Expect to pay between $150 and $300 for towing.
• Daily storage: Daily storage fees typically range from $20 to $50 per day.
• Administrative fees: These fees can vary.
• Release fee: There may be a release fee charged by the impound lot.

IMPORTANT: These are estimated ranges. The exact fees will depend on the towing company and impound lot used. Contact them directly for specific pricing.

Payment Methods

Unfortunately, we do not have payment method information for Wayne County impound lots at this time. It's best to call the impound lot directly to confirm which payment methods they accept (cash, credit card, debit card, etc.).

Timeline

Time is of the essence when retrieving your vehicle.

Within 24 Hours

Aim to retrieve your car within 24 hours of impoundment to minimize daily storage fees.

After 30 Days

If your vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot may have the right to sell it at a lien sale to recover their costs.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

We understand that the fees associated with impoundment can be a significant burden.

Options

• Borrow from family/friends: Consider asking for assistance from loved ones.
• Payment plans: Inquire with the impound lot about payment plan options. Some may offer installments.
• Sign vehicle over to impound lot: As a last resort, you may be able to sign the vehicle title over to the impound lot to avoid accruing further debt. However, you will lose ownership of the car.

What NOT to Do

• Don't wait: Delaying retrieval only increases the fees you'll owe.
• Don't abandon the vehicle: Abandoning the vehicle can lead to further legal issues and fines.

Special Situations

Certain circumstances may complicate the retrieval process.

If Your Car Was Evidence

If the police are holding your car as evidence related to your DUI case, you will need a release authorization from the investigating officer or the Wayne County District Attorney's office before you can retrieve it.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

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

After Retrieval

Once you retrieve your vehicle, take these precautions:

Check Your Vehicle

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

Document Any Damage Immediately

Take photos and document any damage you find.

Report Damage to Impound Lot Manager

Immediately report any damage to the impound lot manager and request a written record of your report. This documentation may be necessary for filing a claim later.

Wayne County Impound Lot Locations

[This section will be populated once impound lot data is available. It will include a detailed list of impound lot locations with addresses, phone numbers, hours of operation, and (if possible) map references.]

We are committed to providing the most up-to-date information for those facing DUI charges in Wayne County. Please check back regularly for updates to this guide. Remember, this information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult with a qualified attorney for specific legal advice regarding your DUI case.