Washington County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Washington, TN

(dui.guide - Your DUI Resource)

Being arrested for DUI in Washington, Tennessee, is a stressful experience. Not only are you facing potential legal consequences, but you're also dealing with the immediate aftermath, including the impoundment of your vehicle. This guide provides you with the essential information you need to retrieve your car quickly and efficiently. Time is of the essence as impound fees can add up rapidly.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you are arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Washington, TN, your vehicle is typically impounded for several reasons:

• Public Safety: To prevent you from driving under the influence again immediately after your arrest.
• Evidence: Your vehicle might be considered evidence in your case, particularly if an accident was involved.
• Legal Requirements: Tennessee law allows for vehicle impoundment in DUI cases.

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

Where Is Your Car?

Finding out where your car is located is crucial. It's likely at an official impound lot in or near Washington, Tennessee.

Official Impound Lots in Washington

Unfortunately, we don't have specific impound lot data for Washington, TN, at this time. However, you can quickly locate your vehicle by following these steps:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Call Washington Police/Sheriff: The most direct way to locate your vehicle is to contact the Washington Police Department or the Washington County Sheriff's Office.
• Washington Police Department:
• Washington County Sheriff's Office:
• Reference your case number: When you call, provide your name, date of birth, and, most importantly, your case number. This will help them quickly locate your vehicle's impound location.
• Expect towing within 24 hours: In most cases, your vehicle will be towed to the impound lot within 24 hours of your arrest. Call as soon as possible.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, ensure you have all the necessary documents to prevent any delays or complications.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's 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: Your insurance card or policy documents.
• Cash or credit card for fees: Impound lots typically accept cash, credit cards, or both. Confirm acceptable payment methods with the specific lot beforehand.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

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

• Have someone else pick it up: A friend or family member with a valid license can retrieve the car for you.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, written authorization from you (a simple signed note stating they are authorized to pick up the vehicle on your behalf), and the vehicle's title or registration to prove ownership.

Costs & Fees in Washington

Understanding the costs associated with vehicle impoundment is essential to avoid unexpected expenses.

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: These fees cover the impound lot's administrative costs and can range from $ to $.
• Release fee: A one-time release fee might also be charged, typically around $.

IMPORTANT: These fees accumulate daily. The longer you wait, the more expensive it will be to retrieve your vehicle. Act fast!

Payment Methods

Timeline

Understanding the timeline is vital to avoid losing your vehicle.

Within 24 Hours

Ideally, retrieve your vehicle within 24 hours of the impound to minimize storage fees. This will save you a significant amount of money.

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. Don't let this happen!

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Facing financial difficulties after a DUI arrest is common. Here are some options to consider:

Options

• Borrow from family/friends: Ask for assistance from loved ones.
• Payment plans: Some impound lots might offer payment plans. Inquire about this possibility.
• Sign vehicle over to impound lot: As a last resort, you can sign the vehicle over to the impound lot to avoid accumulating further debt. However, you will lose ownership of your car.

What NOT to Do

• Don't wait: As emphasized earlier, fees add up quickly. Procrastination will only worsen the situation.
• Don't abandon the vehicle: Abandoning your vehicle is illegal and can lead to further legal complications and fines.

Special Situations

Certain circumstances may require additional steps.

If Your Car Was Evidence

If the police are holding your vehicle as evidence, it may be held longer than usual. Contact the investigating officer or the Washington Police Department to obtain a release authorization before attempting to retrieve your vehicle.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

If the vehicle is registered to someone else (e.g., a parent, spouse, or leasing company), the registered owner has the right to retrieve it, regardless of your situation. They will need to provide proof of ownership (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 photos and videos of any damage.

Report damage to impound lot manager

Report any damage to the impound lot manager immediately and obtain a written record of your report. This will be crucial if you need to file a claim for damages.

Washington Impound Lot Locations

[Detailed list of impound lots with addresses, phone numbers, hours, and map references will be inserted here as data becomes available.]

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. DUI laws and impound procedures can change. It's always best to consult with a qualified attorney regarding your specific situation.