Harrison County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Harrison

Being arrested for a DUI in Harrison, Ohio, is a stressful experience. On top of legal worries, you're likely wondering what happens to your car. This guide provides immediate, practical information on how to retrieve your impounded vehicle, minimizing further complications and costs. We understand this is a difficult time, and we're here to help you navigate the process.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Harrison, your vehicle is typically impounded for a few key reasons:

• Public Safety: To prevent you from driving under the influence again immediately after your arrest.
• Evidence: The vehicle might be needed as evidence in your case.
• Liability: To protect the police and the towing company from liability.

Understanding why your car was impounded is the first step in getting it back. The quicker you act, the less you'll pay in fees.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding your car is the first crucial step. It's typically held at an official impound lot contracted by the Harrison Police Department or the Harrison County Sheriff's Office.

Official Impound Lots in Harrison

Unfortunately, we don't have specific impound lot data for Harrison at this time. However, we're working to gather this information.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Call Harrison Police/Sheriff: Your best bet is to contact the Harrison Police Department or the Harrison County Sheriff's Office directly. Ask where your vehicle was towed.
• Phone: Use online search to find the contact information for Harrison Police Department or Harrison County Sheriff's Office.
• Reference Your Case Number: When you call, be sure to have your case number (if you have it) or other identifying information ready to provide to the officer. This will help them locate your vehicle quickly.
• Most Vehicles Towed Within 24 Hours of Arrest: Impound lots generally tow vehicles within 24 hours of the arrest.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before you head to the impound lot, make sure you have all the necessary documents. Without them, you won't be able to retrieve your car.

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle Registration: You need proof of ownership of the vehicle.
• Proof of Insurance: Current insurance documentation is required.
• Cash or Credit Card: Impound lots typically accept cash or credit cards for payment of fees. Call ahead to confirm accepted payment methods.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you can still get your car back, but you'll need someone else to pick it up.

• 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 (a signed note stating they have your permission).
• A copy of the vehicle title or registration (to prove ownership).

Costs & Fees in Harrison

Understanding the costs associated with impoundment is crucial. Fees accumulate daily, so prompt action is essential to minimize expenses.

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. This is where the costs can quickly escalate.
• Administrative Fees: There may be administrative fees associated with processing the release, potentially ranging from $25 to $75.
• Release Fee: A final release fee may be charged, typically around $50-$100.

IMPORTANT: Fees accumulate daily. Getting your car back as soon as possible is crucial to minimize costs. Every day counts!

Payment Methods

Unfortunately, we don't have specific payment method information for Harrison impound lots. It's highly recommended to call the impound lot before you go to inquire about acceptable payment methods (cash, credit card, debit card, etc.).

Timeline

Time is of the essence when it comes to retrieving your vehicle.

Within 24 Hours

Aim to retrieve your car within 24 hours of the impound to minimize daily storage fees. This is the most cost-effective approach.

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. You'll lose your vehicle and potentially still be liable for outstanding fees.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

We understand that the impound fees can be a significant financial burden, especially after a DUI arrest.

Options

• Borrow from Family/Friends: Consider borrowing money from family or friends to cover the fees.
• Payment Plans: Some impound lots may offer payment plans. Inquire about this option.
• Sign Vehicle Over to Impound Lot: In extreme cases, you might be able to sign the vehicle 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: Procrastinating will only result in higher fees.
• Don't Abandon the Vehicle: Abandoning your vehicle can lead to further legal issues and fines.

Special Situations

Certain circumstances can complicate the retrieval process.

If Your Car Was Evidence

If the police are holding your car as evidence in your DUI case, it may be held longer than usual. You will need to obtain a release authorization from the police department or the prosecutor's office before the impound lot will release it.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

If the vehicle is registered to someone else (e.g., a family member or a leasing company), the registered owner has the right to retrieve it, regardless of your situation. They will need to provide proof of ownership (vehicle 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 and document any damage you find.

Report Damage to Impound Lot Manager

Report any damage to the impound lot manager immediately. Get a written acknowledgment of your report. This is essential if you plan to file a claim for damages.

Harrison Impound Lot Locations

[Detailed list with map references if available - Awaiting Data Insertion]

We are working to gather a comprehensive list of impound lot locations in Harrison, Ohio, including addresses, phone numbers, and map references. Please check back soon for updated information. In the meantime, contact the Harrison Police Department or the Harrison County Sheriff's Office for the most accurate information on where your vehicle is located.