Smith County Vehicle Impound Guide

Immediate Steps After a DUI Arrest: Locating Your Vehicle

After a DUI arrest in Smith County, your vehicle is typically impounded. The arresting officer should inform you of the towing company used, and this information is recorded on the "Vehicle Towing Report." If you were unable to obtain this information at the scene, do not call 911. Instead, call the Smith County Sheriff’s Non-Emergency Line at (615) 735-2626. The jail intake officer will have the tow record in the defendant's property bag or arrest file.

Harris Towing is a dominant provider for the Carthage and South Carthage area. However, the Smith County Sheriff's Office utilizes a rotation list, so your vehicle could be at another lot. If Harris Towing doesn't have your car, check these alternative locations:

• JLS Towing & Recovery: Located in the Westmoreland area (serves northern Smith County). Phone: (615) 644-3052.
• Hamblen’s Wrecker Service: Located in Mt. Juliet/Hermitage (often serves the western edge of the county/I-40 corridor). Phone: (615) 758-5142.
• G & E Towing: Located in La Vergne (less likely for local stops, more for THP stops near county lines). Phone: (615) 972-6969.

Understanding "Hold" vs. "Impound"

It's crucial to determine if your vehicle is simply impounded or placed on a "Seizure Hold." In a standard DUI, the vehicle is impounded for safekeeping. However, if the car was involved in a serious accident, vehicular homicide, or if it contains evidence of drug trafficking, it may be placed on a "Seizure Hold." If a hold is active, the tow lot cannot release the vehicle, even if you pay the fees.

If you suspect a hold, contact the investigating detective at the Sheriff's Office or Carthage PD to obtain a written "Release Order." Do not drive to the tow lot without verifying the hold status first.

Overcoming Common Impound Challenges

Several common issues can delay the release of your vehicle.

• The "Lunch Hour" Gap: Small-town towing offices often close entirely for lunch, typically from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM or 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Always call the release line before departing and ask, "Will there be someone at the window between 12 and 1?" Arriving at 12:05 PM could mean a 55-minute wait.

• The "DUI License" Trap: Your driver’s license is almost always seized at the time of a DUI arrest due to Tennessee's Implied Consent Law. The tow lot requires a valid driver’s license to drive the vehicle off the lot. The owner (defendant) can pay the fees, but they cannot drive the car away. The defendant must be accompanied by a second person with a valid license to act as the driver. If the owner is still in jail, this presents a significant challenge.

Fees and Payment

Expect to pay towing and storage fees to retrieve your vehicle. These fees vary depending on the towing company and the length of time the vehicle is impounded. Be prepared to pay with cash or a credit card. Call the specific towing company to confirm their accepted payment methods and the exact amount due.

The "Sobering Up" Release Delay and Its Impact

Keep in mind that Smith County Jail, like many rural Tennessee facilities, strictly enforces a 12-hour hold or a "sober release" policy. Even if bail is posted instantly, the defendant will not be released until their BAC is deemed safe (usually 0.00% or under 0.02%), or a responsible sober adult signs a liability waiver to take custody of them. This delay can impact your ability to retrieve your vehicle promptly.

Navigating Transportation Challenges

Smith County lacks robust public transportation or reliable ride-share density. A license suspension here is functionally more punitive than in an urban center. The loss of driving privileges often equates to a loss of livelihood, as alternative transit to Carthage for court appearances or to neighboring counties for mandated services (Interlock installation, DMV hearings) is virtually non-existent. Plan accordingly and explore alternative transportation options, such as relying on friends or family, if possible.

Important Contact Information

• Smith County Sheriff’s Non-Emergency Line: (615) 735-2626 (for locating your vehicle)
• JLS Towing & Recovery: (615) 644-3052
• Hamblen’s Wrecker Service: (615) 758-5142
• G & E Towing: (615) 972-6969

Remember, if you are searching online for information about the Smith County Sheriff, be aware that a significant amount of online information defaults to Smith County, Texas (Tyler, TX). If the area code is 903, you are looking at Texas information. The correct area code for Carthage, TN is 615.