Perry County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Perry

Being arrested for a DUI in Perry, Ohio is a stressful situation. On top of the legal challenges, you're likely dealing with the immediate problem of your impounded vehicle. This guide will walk you through the process of retrieving your car, explaining what you need to do, the costs involved, and how to handle common complications. At dui.guide, we understand this is a tough time, and we're here to provide clear, practical information.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

Following a DUI arrest in Perry, your vehicle is typically impounded. This is standard procedure to ensure public safety and prevent further impaired driving. The impound protects the vehicle and allows law enforcement to process any potential evidence related to your case. The immediate concern now is understanding how to get your car back as quickly and efficiently as possible to minimize fees and further complications.

Where Is Your Car?

After your arrest, your car was likely towed to an official impound lot. Knowing where it is located is the first step to getting it back.

Official Impound Lots in Perry

Unfortunately, we don't currently have specific impound lot data for Perry. However, you can quickly find this out by following the steps below.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Call Perry Police/Sheriff: This is the most direct way to find out where your car was towed. Call them at .
• Reference your case number: When you call, provide your name and, if you know it, your case number. This will help them locate your vehicle information quickly.
• Most vehicles towed within 24 hours of arrest: Typically, vehicles are towed within 24 hours of the arrest. Don't delay in contacting the authorities to locate your car.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Retrieving your vehicle requires specific documents and payment of fees. Being prepared will streamline the process.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or someone with a valid license): You, or the person retrieving the car, must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration: Proof that you (or the owner) are legally connected to the vehicle.
• Proof of insurance: Demonstrates that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Cash or credit card for fees: Impound lots accept various payment methods. Check with the specific lot to confirm their accepted forms of payment.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

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

• Have someone else pick it up: A friend or family member with a valid license can retrieve the car on your behalf.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license.
• Authorization from you (a signed statement giving them permission).
• Vehicle title or registration (proving ownership).

Costs & Fees in Perry

Understanding the costs involved is crucial. Impound fees can accumulate rapidly, so acting quickly is essential.

Typical Fees

• Towing fee: Expect to pay between $150 and $300 for the towing service.
• Daily storage: Daily storage fees typically range from $20 to $50 per day. This is where costs can quickly escalate.
• Administrative fees: There may be administrative fees associated with processing the release of your vehicle. These could range from $[range - research local rates if available, otherwise leave blank].
• Release fee: A final release fee might be charged, potentially around $[amount - research local rates if available, otherwise leave blank].

IMPORTANT: These fees accumulate daily. The longer you wait, the more you'll owe. Get your car ASAP to minimize costs.

Payment Methods

[Check with the specific impound lot in Perry to determine which payment methods they accept (cash, credit card, debit card, etc.). Insert information here if available. If not: "Contact the impound lot directly to confirm accepted payment methods."]

Timeline

Understanding the timeline is critical for avoiding further complications.

Within 24 Hours

Aim to retrieve your car within 24 hours of the impound. This will significantly reduce daily storage fees.

After 30 Days

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

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Financial constraints can make retrieving your vehicle challenging. Here are some options:

Options

• Borrow from family/friends: Consider asking for financial assistance from loved ones.
• Payment plans (some lots offer this): Inquire whether the impound lot offers payment plans to spread out the cost.
• Sign vehicle over to the impound lot (avoid debt but lose car): As a last resort, you may be able to sign the vehicle over to the impound lot to avoid accumulating debt. This means you will no longer own the car.

What NOT to Do

• Don't wait: Fees add up rapidly. Procrastination will only worsen the financial burden.
• Don't abandon the vehicle: Abandoning the vehicle can lead to further legal and financial consequences.

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, you'll need their authorization before the impound lot can release it. Contact the Perry Police Department or the prosecuting attorney to request a release authorization.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

If the car is registered to someone else (e.g., a parent or spouse), the registered owner has the right to retrieve it, regardless of your situation. They'll need to provide proof of ownership (vehicle title or registration) and their 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 while it was impounded.

Document Any Damage Immediately

Take detailed photos of any damage you find.

Report Damage to Impound Lot Manager

Immediately report any damage to the impound lot manager and file a written claim. This will help protect your rights if you need to pursue compensation for the damage.

Perry Impound Lot Locations

We hope this guide has been helpful. Remember to act quickly to minimize fees and protect your rights. At dui.guide, we are committed to providing you with the information and resources you need during this challenging time.