Sandusky County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Sandusky

Being arrested for a DUI in Sandusky, Ohio, is stressful enough. On top of the legal worries, you're likely dealing with the immediate problem of getting your car back. This guide provides the practical information you need to retrieve your vehicle quickly and minimize fees. DUI.GUIDE is here to help you navigate this challenging time.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

After a DUI arrest in Sandusky, your vehicle is typically impounded for a few key reasons:

• Public Safety: To prevent you from driving under the influence again.
• Evidence: The vehicle might be held as evidence in your case, especially if there was an accident.
• Standard Procedure: Impoundment is a common procedure following a DUI arrest in Ohio.

Understanding why your car was impounded is the first step in getting it back. Time is of the essence because storage fees accumulate daily.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding out where your car is located is crucial. It's usually taken to an official impound lot.

Official Impound Lots in Sandusky

Unfortunately, we don't have specific data on impound lots in Sandusky at this time. However, you can quickly find out by following these steps:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Call Sandusky Police/Sheriff: Contact the Sandusky Police Department or the Sandusky County Sheriff's Office directly. They can provide the location of your impounded vehicle. Ask for the relevant phone number at the time of your arrest or look it up online.
• Reference your case number: Have your case number or booking information ready when you call. This will help them locate your vehicle quickly.
• Most vehicles towed within 24 hours of arrest: Your vehicle will likely be towed within 24 hours of your arrest, so act fast.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before you head to the impound lot, make sure you have all the necessary documents. Missing paperwork can cause delays and increase costs.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or someone with a valid license): You, or someone you authorize, must have a valid driver's license to retrieve the vehicle.
• Vehicle registration: Proof that the vehicle is registered in your name (or the name of the person retrieving it).
• Proof of insurance: Valid insurance documentation for the vehicle.
• Cash or credit card for fees: Impound lots typically accept cash or credit cards. Check with the specific lot beforehand to confirm accepted payment methods.

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 license can retrieve the car on your behalf.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license.
• A signed authorization from you, granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle.
• The vehicle title or registration in your name (or proof of ownership).

Costs & Fees in Sandusky

Impound fees can add up quickly, so it's important to understand the costs involved.

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.
• Administrative fees: There may be additional administrative fees associated with the impound.
• Release fee: A release fee might also be charged.

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

Payment Methods

Check with the specific impound lot to determine accepted payment methods. Most accept cash and major credit cards.

Timeline

Acting quickly is crucial to minimize costs.

Within 24 Hours

Aim to retrieve your car within 24 hours of the impound to avoid accumulating significant 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

If you're struggling to afford the impound fees, explore the following options:

Options

• Borrow from family/friends: Ask for financial assistance from loved ones.
• Payment plans: Some impound lots may offer payment plans. Inquire about this option.
• Sign vehicle over to impound lot: As a last resort, you can sign the vehicle over to the impound lot. This will avoid accruing further debt but means you will lose the car.

What NOT to Do

• Don't wait: Fees add up rapidly. Procrastination will only worsen the situation.
• Don't abandon the vehicle: Abandoning your car can lead to further legal complications and fines.

Special Situations

Certain circumstances can affect the retrieval process.

If Your Car Was Evidence

If your car is being held as evidence in your DUI case, the police may retain it for a longer period.

• May be held longer by police: Contact the Sandusky Police Department or the Sandusky County Sheriff's Office to determine when the vehicle will be released.
• Get release authorization first: Before heading to the impound lot, obtain written authorization from the police to release the vehicle.

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 DUI arrest.

• Registered owner can retrieve regardless of your situation: The registered owner will need to provide proof of ownership (vehicle title or registration) and a valid driver's license.
• They'll need proof of ownership

After Retrieval

Once you've retrieved 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 detailed notes of any scratches, dents, or other damage.
• Take photos: Capture photographic evidence of the damage.
• Report damage to impound lot manager: Immediately report any damage to the impound lot manager and file a claim if necessary.

Sandusky Impound Lot Locations

[Detailed list with map references if available] - This section will be populated when data is available. In the meantime, contact the Sandusky Police Department or the Sandusky County Sheriff's Office for impound lot information.

Remember, DUI.GUIDE is here to provide you with resources and information. While this guide offers practical advice, it's crucial to consult with a qualified DUI attorney in Sandusky, Ohio, to understand your legal rights and options. They can help you navigate the complexities of your case and protect your future.