Catoosa County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Catoosa County

After a DUI arrest in Catoosa County, Georgia, one of your most immediate concerns will be retrieving your vehicle. Vehicles are typically impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons: as evidence, for public safety (to prevent further impaired driving), or due to legal requirements. Understanding the process and acting quickly is essential to minimize storage fees and avoid further complications.

Where Is Your Car?

Your vehicle is likely at one of the impound lots contracted by the Catoosa County Sheriff's Office or local police departments. Due to Catoosa County's proximity to Tennessee, your vehicle may be located across state lines in Chattanooga. Here are some potential locations:

• Catoosa County Sheriff's Office: 5842 US-41, Ringgold, GA 30736. Phone: N/A.
• Shackleford Towing & Recovery, LLC: 129 Christian Rd, Ringgold, GA 30736. Phone: N/A.

It is also possible your vehicle was towed to a lot in Chattanooga, TN.

How to Find Your Vehicle

To determine the exact location of your vehicle:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating which towing company was used.
• Call the Catoosa County Sheriff's Office: Contact their non-emergency line at (706) 935-2424 to inquire about the impound location.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number ready when you call will help them locate your vehicle information more quickly.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, gather the necessary documents to avoid delays.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is required. Bring either the vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: You must show proof of current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all applicable towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or you don't have a valid license for any reason:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A licensed driver can pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you (if possible), and the vehicle title or registration. If you are incarcerated, you may need to execute a notarized Power of Attorney from within the Catoosa County Jail.

Costs & Fees in Catoosa County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the costs is crucial.

• Daily Storage Rate: Storage rate is confirmed unavailable.
• Tow Fee: Tow fee is confirmed unavailable.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day your vehicle remains at the impound lot. Contact the lot directly to confirm the exact amount due before you arrive.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Many impound lots require cash for non-consensual law enforcement tows.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day you delay retrieving your vehicle costs more money.

After 30 Days

Under regional operational guidelines, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for approximately 30 to 45 days, it is deemed legally abandoned and becomes subject to a lien sale or public auction. Defendants facing extended pre-trial detention without strong external support networks are at extreme risk of permanently losing their vehicles and the equity therein to these administrative auctions.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are struggling to afford the impound fees:

• Contact a family member or friend to help cover costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available. Some impound lots may offer payment options.

After Retrieval

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot.
• Document any damage with photos. Take pictures of any dents, scratches, or other damage.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away. Get a signed copy of the damage report for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: If I am still in jail, can someone else pick up my car for me? A: Yes, but they will need a notarized Power of Attorney from you authorizing them to act as your agent. You can execute this document from within the Catoosa County Jail.

Q: What happens if I can't afford to get my car out of impound? A: If a vehicle remains unclaimed for approximately 30 to 45 days, it is deemed legally abandoned and becomes subject to a lien sale or public auction.

Q: Can I get my personal belongings out of the car if I can't afford to get the car out of impound right away? A: While personal clothing, medications, and paperwork may be released to the registered owner (provided the police hold is lifted), aftermarket stereos, amplifiers, custom wheels, and batteries cannot be removed.