Ashland County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Ashland

(dui.guide - Your Guide to DUI in Ashland, Ohio)

A DUI arrest in Ashland, Ohio is stressful enough, but dealing with the impound of your vehicle adds another layer of complication and expense. This guide provides immediate, practical steps you can take to retrieve your car as quickly and affordably as possible. Time is of the essence, as storage fees add up daily.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Ashland, Ohio, your vehicle is almost always impounded. This is standard procedure for several reasons:

• Public Safety: Prevents you from driving under the influence again immediately after your release.
• Evidence: The vehicle itself may be considered evidence in your case.
• Legal Requirement: Ohio law often mandates impoundment following a DUI arrest, especially if your BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) was above the legal limit of 0.08.

Don't panic. While retrieving your car can be a hassle, it's a manageable process. This guide will walk you through it.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is locating your vehicle. It's likely at an official impound lot in or near Ashland.

Official Impound Lots in Ashland

Unfortunately, we don't have specific impound lot information for Ashland, Ohio at this time. However, here's how to find out where your car is:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Call Ashland Police/Sheriff: This is the fastest way to find out where your car was towed. Contact them at the non-emergency line. Look up the Ashland Police Department or Ashland County Sheriff's Office online for their current phone number.
• Reference your case number: When you call, provide your name, date of birth, and any case or arrest number you were given. This will help them quickly locate your vehicle.
• Most vehicles towed within 24 hours of arrest: Typically, vehicles are towed within 24 hours of the arrest. If you were arrested late at night, your car should be at the impound lot by the next morning.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Gathering the necessary documents is crucial for a smooth retrieval process.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or someone with a valid license): You or the person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license. If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, see the section below.
• Vehicle registration: Proof that you or the registered owner are legally associated with the vehicle.
• Proof of insurance: The vehicle must be currently insured.
• Cash or credit card for fees: Impound lots typically accept cash or major credit cards. Call ahead to confirm acceptable payment methods.

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 you need to do:

• Have someone else pick it up: A friend or family member with a valid driver's license can retrieve the car on your behalf.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license
• A signed authorization letter from you (allowing them to pick up your vehicle)
• A copy of the vehicle title or registration (to prove ownership)

Costs & Fees in Ashland

Understanding the costs involved is critical. Impound fees can quickly escalate.

Typical Fees

• Towing fee: Expect to pay between $150 and $300 for the towing service.
• Daily storage: Storage fees typically range from $20 to $50 per day.
• Administrative fees: These fees cover paperwork and processing, and can range from $25-$75.
• Release fee: A one-time fee to release the vehicle, usually around $50-$100.

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

Payment Methods

Contact the specific impound lot where your vehicle is located to confirm accepted payment methods. Most accept cash and major credit cards. Some may accept debit cards or certified checks.

Timeline

Acting quickly is essential to minimize costs.

Within 24 Hours

Aim to retrieve your vehicle within 24 hours of the impound. This will help you avoid excessive daily storage fees.

After 30 Days

If your vehicle remains unclaimed after 30 days, the impound lot has the right to sell it at a lien sale to recover their costs. You'll lose your vehicle and may still be responsible for outstanding fees.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Financial constraints can make retrieving your car difficult. Here are some options:

Options

• Borrow from family/friends: This is often the quickest and easiest solution.
• Payment plans (some lots offer this): Inquire with the impound lot about payment plan options. Some may allow you to pay the fees in installments.
• Sign vehicle over to impound lot (avoid debt but lose car): If you absolutely cannot afford the fees, you can sign the vehicle title over to the impound lot. This will relieve you of the debt, but you will permanently lose ownership of the car.

What NOT to Do

• Don't wait - fees add up fast: Procrastination will only make the situation worse.
• Don't abandon the vehicle: Abandoning the vehicle can lead to further legal trouble and fines.

Special Situations

Certain situations may complicate the retrieval process.

If Your Car Was Evidence

If the police are holding your car as evidence, it may be held longer than usual. You'll need to obtain a release authorization from the Ashland Police Department or the Ashland County Prosecutor's Office before the impound lot will release the vehicle.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

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

After Retrieval

Once you retrieve your vehicle, take these 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 and videos of any damage you find.

Report Damage to Impound Lot Manager

Report any damage to the impound lot manager in writing as soon as possible. This will help you file a claim for compensation if the damage was caused by the towing company or impound lot.

Ashland Impound Lot Locations

[This section will be updated with a detailed list of impound lot locations in Ashland, Ohio, including addresses, phone numbers, hours of operation, and map references as soon as that data becomes available. Please check back soon.]

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about vehicle impoundment after a DUI arrest in Ashland, Ohio. It is not legal advice and should not be substituted for the advice of a qualified attorney. Laws and procedures can change, so it's essential to consult with a legal professional for specific guidance regarding your situation.

(Remember to consult with a qualified attorney for personalized legal advice regarding your DUI arrest.)