Jackson County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Jackson

Being arrested for a DUI in Jackson, Tennessee is a stressful experience, and one of the immediate concerns many people face is: "What happens to my car?" After a DUI arrest, your vehicle is typically impounded. This guide provides the information you need to retrieve your vehicle as quickly and affordably as possible. We understand this is a difficult time, and we aim to give you clear, practical steps to navigate the process.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you are arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Jackson, TN, law enforcement will typically impound your vehicle for several reasons:

• Safety: To prevent you from driving under the influence again immediately after your arrest.
• Evidence: The vehicle itself may be considered evidence in your DUI case.
• Liability: To protect the city/county and towing companies from liability if something were to happen to the vehicle while it was left unattended.

Understanding why your car was impounded is the first step in getting it back.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding your car is the most immediate task. It's usually towed to an official impound lot within Jackson County.

Official Impound Lots in Jackson

Unfortunately, we don't have specific data on impound lots in Jackson, TN at this time. However, you can usually find this information by contacting the Jackson Police or Sheriff's Department.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Here's how to locate your impounded vehicle:

• Call Jackson Police/Sheriff: Contact the Jackson Police Department or the Jackson County Sheriff's Office. You can find their phone number online by searching "Jackson Police Department phone number" or "Jackson County Sheriff's Office phone number."
• Reference your case number: When you call, be sure to provide your name, date of birth, and, most importantly, your case number (if you have it). This will help them quickly locate your vehicle's location.
• Most vehicles towed within 24 hours of arrest: Your car is typically towed to an impound lot within 24 hours of your arrest. Don't delay in starting your search.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your car is impounded, you'll need to gather the necessary documents to retrieve it.

Required Documents

Typically, you'll need the following:

• Valid driver's license: Either yours or someone else who is authorized to drive the vehicle.
• Vehicle registration: Proof that the vehicle is registered to you (or the person retrieving it).
• Proof of insurance: Current insurance policy for the vehicle.
• Cash or credit card for fees: Impound lots typically accept cash or credit cards for payment. It's always a good idea to 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 have options:

• Have someone else pick it up: The registered owner or someone you authorize can retrieve the vehicle if they have a valid driver's license.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license.
• Authorization from you (a signed letter or form).
• Vehicle title or registration proving ownership.

Costs & Fees in Jackson

The costs associated with impounding and storing your vehicle can add up quickly. Understanding these fees is crucial to minimizing expenses.

Typical Fees

Expect to pay the following types of fees:

• Towing fee: $150 - $300
• Daily storage fee: $20 - $50 per day
• Administrative fees: $25 - $75
• Release fee: $50 - $100

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

Payment Methods

Unfortunately, we don't have specific data about accepted payment methods for Jackson impound lots. Call the impound lot directly to confirm which payment methods they accept (cash, credit card, debit card, etc.).

Timeline

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

Within 24 Hours

Ideally, you should attempt to retrieve your vehicle within 24 hours of the impound. This minimizes the 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: This is often the quickest and easiest solution.
• Payment plans: Some impound lots may offer payment plans. Inquire about this possibility.
• Sign vehicle over to impound lot: As a last resort, you can sign the title of the vehicle over to the impound lot. This will relieve you of the debt, but you will lose ownership of the car.

What NOT to Do

• Don't wait: Fees add up rapidly. Procrastination will only increase the financial burden.
• Don't abandon the vehicle: Abandoning the vehicle can result in additional fines and legal consequences.

Special Situations

Certain circumstances can complicate the retrieval process.

If Your Car Was Evidence

If law enforcement is holding your car as evidence in your DUI case, it may be held longer. You will need to obtain a release authorization from the Jackson Police Department or the District Attorney'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 family member), the registered owner has the right to retrieve the vehicle regardless of your DUI situation. They will need to provide proof of ownership (vehicle title or registration) and a valid driver's license.

After Retrieval

After retrieving your vehicle, take the following 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 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. Keep a copy of your claim for your records.

Jackson Impound Lot Locations

Unfortunately, we don't have a detailed list of impound lot locations in Jackson, TN, at this time. Contact the Jackson Police Department or the Jackson County Sheriff's Office for specific locations.