Cannon County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Cannon

Being arrested for a DUI in Cannon, Tennessee, is a stressful experience. One immediate concern is often: "Where's my car, and how do I get it back?" This guide provides practical steps to retrieve your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Cannon. Understanding the process, required documents, and associated costs can help you navigate this challenging situation and minimize further expenses.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Tennessee, your vehicle is typically impounded. This is standard procedure to ensure public safety and prevent further impaired driving. The police will arrange for a towing company to transport your car to an official impound lot. Don't panic; this guide will walk you through the process of getting it back.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding out where your car has been towed is the first crucial step. Here's how to locate your vehicle:

Official Impound Lots in Cannon

Unfortunately, we don't have specific impound lot information for Cannon County at this time. However, we can help you find that information.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Call Cannon Police/Sheriff: The quickest way to find your vehicle is to contact the Cannon County Police Department or the Sheriff's Office. They will have a record of where your car was towed.

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• Reference your case number: When you call, provide your name and, if possible, your case number. This will help them locate your vehicle quickly.
• Most vehicles towed within 24 hours of arrest: Generally, your vehicle will be towed to an impound lot within 24 hours of your arrest.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Retrieving your vehicle requires specific documentation. Be prepared to present the following:

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.
• Vehicle registration: Proof that you (or the registered owner) own the vehicle.
• Proof of insurance: Current insurance documentation for the vehicle.
• Cash or credit card for fees: Impound lots typically accept cash or credit cards to cover towing, storage, and administrative fees. Confirm accepted payment methods with the specific impound lot.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or you don't have a valid license, you can still retrieve your vehicle by:

• Having someone else pick it up: A licensed driver can pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, written authorization from you (a simple signed note will usually suffice), and the vehicle title or registration proving ownership.

Costs & Fees in Cannon

Be aware that retrieving your vehicle involves fees that can accumulate quickly.

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 can vary. Expect a range of $ to $.
• Release fee: A release fee of $ may also be charged.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes to retrieve your vehicle. Act quickly!

Payment Methods

Timeline

Understanding the timeline is crucial to avoid additional costs and potential loss of your vehicle.

Within 24 Hours

Ideally, retrieve your car within 24 hours of the impound. This minimizes daily storage fees.

After 30 Days

If your vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot has 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, consider these options:

Options

• Borrow from family/friends: This is often the quickest solution.
• Payment plans (some lots offer this): Some impound lots may offer payment plans. Inquire about this possibility.
• Sign vehicle over to impound lot (avoid debt but lose car): As a last resort, you can sign the vehicle title over to the impound lot to cover the fees. This avoids accruing further debt, but you will lose ownership of the car.

What NOT to Do

• Don't wait - fees add up fast: Procrastination will only increase the costs.
• Don't abandon the vehicle: Abandoning your vehicle can lead to further legal issues and fines.

Special Situations

If Your Car Was Evidence

In some cases, your vehicle may be held longer by the police as evidence related to your DUI arrest.

• May be held longer by police: If this is the case, the police will notify you.
• Get release authorization first: You'll need written authorization from the investigating officer or the court before the impound lot will release your vehicle.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

If the vehicle is registered in someone else's name (e.g., a parent, spouse, or leasing company), the registered owner has the right to retrieve the vehicle, regardless of your DUI arrest.

• Registered owner can retrieve regardless of your situation: They will need to provide proof of ownership (vehicle title or registration).
• They'll need proof of ownership: As stated above.

After Retrieval

Once you've retrieved your vehicle:

Check Your Vehicle

• Document any damage immediately: Thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Take photos: Take detailed photos of any existing damage.
• Report damage to impound lot manager: Immediately report any damage to the impound lot manager. Get a written acknowledgment of your report.

Cannon Impound Lot Locations

[This section requires research and populating with actual impound lot locations in or near Cannon County. Include addresses, phone numbers, and hours of operation for each location. If possible, embed a map with the locations marked.]