DeKalb County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in DeKalb County

Following a DUI arrest in DeKalb County, Georgia, one of your immediate concerns will likely be retrieving your vehicle. Understanding the impound process and acting quickly is crucial to minimize fees and avoid further complications. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to locate, retrieve, and protect your rights regarding your impounded vehicle in DeKalb County.

Where Is Your Car?

In DeKalb County, a decentralized, precinct-based model delegates custodial responsibilities to specific private wrecker services. This means your car will be at one of several different lots, depending on where you were arrested. You must first obtain a Vehicle Release Form from the DeKalb County Police Department (DKPD) Property and Evidence Section, located at 3630 Camp Circle, Decatur, GA 30032. The Property and Evidence Section is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM and is closed for lunch from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM.

Here are the primary impound lot locations based on the DeKalb County Police precinct where your arrest occurred:

• North-Central Precinct (e.g., Chamblee, Doraville): Brown & Brown Wrecker Service, 3854 North Peachtree Road, Chamblee, GA 30341.
• Tucker Precinct (and all large vehicle tows): S&W Towing, 2158 Tucker Industrial Road, Tucker, GA 30084.
• East Precinct: Statewide Wrecker Service, 6995 Covington Hwy, Lithonia, GA 30058
• South Precinct: South DeKalb Towing & Transport, 7043 Rogers Lake Rd, Lithonia, GA

How to Find Your Vehicle

If you are unsure where your vehicle was towed, here are several ways to find out:

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with documentation indicating the name and contact information of the towing company.
• Call the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office: Contact the non-emergency line to inquire about the location of your vehicle.
• Reference Your Booking Number: Provide your booking number to the Sheriff's Office for quicker identification of your vehicle's location.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

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

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a current, valid state-issued Driver's License, ID Card, US Military ID, or Passport.
• Vehicle Registration or Title: Proof of ownership is essential.
• Proof of Insurance: Current insurance documentation matching the vehicle is required.
• Vehicle Release Form: You must first obtain a Vehicle Release Form from the DeKalb County Police Department (DKPD) Property and Evidence Section, located at 3630 Camp Circle, Decatur, GA 30032.
• Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay all towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you can still retrieve your vehicle by:

• Having a Licensed Friend or Family Member Retrieve It: Designate a licensed individual to pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• They Need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you, and the vehicle title or registration.

Costs & Fees in DeKalb County

Towing and storage fees can accumulate rapidly. It's crucial to understand the potential costs involved.

The Georgia Department of Public Safety regulates towing fees. Maximum Rate Tariff No. 5, effective June 2024, allows for base tow rates that can exceed $175.00. Storage fees are also regulated, typically capped around $30.00 - $35.00 per day.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize expenses.

Payment

Contact the specific impound lot before going to confirm their accepted payment methods. Some, like S&W Towing and Statewide Wrecker Service, are CASH ONLY. Other options may include credit card, debit card, or money order.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes. Under Georgia DPS Rule 570-38, storage fees cannot be charged for the first 24 hours the vehicle is on the lot.

After 30 Days

Under O.C.G.A. § 40-11-1 et seq., known as the Abandoned Motor Vehicle (AMV) Act, towing companies can initiate a lien foreclosure process if a vehicle remains unclaimed for 30 days. This allows them to sell the vehicle to recover costs. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are struggling to afford the impound fees, consider these options:

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Ask for assistance in covering the costs.
• Ask About a Payment Plan: Some impound lots may offer payment plans. Inquire about this possibility.
• Consult with a DUI Attorney: An attorney may be able to negotiate or challenge the fees in certain cases.

After Retrieval

Before leaving the impound lot:

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while in impound.
• Document Any Damage: Take photos of any damage as evidence.
• Report Any Damage: Immediately report any damage to the lot manager in writing before driving away. Keep a copy of the report for your records.

By following these steps, you can navigate the vehicle retrieval process efficiently and protect your rights after a DUI arrest in DeKalb County.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I get my personal belongings out of my car before I retrieve it from the impound lot in DeKalb County? You can typically retrieve personal belongings. Contact the DeKalb County Police Department Property and Evidence Section at 3630 Camp Circle, Decatur, GA 30032 to arrange access before you retrieve your vehicle.
2. What happens if I can't afford to get my car out of impound in DeKalb County? Under O.C.G.A. § 40-11-1 et seq., after 30 days, the towing company can initiate a lien sale. Contact the impound lot immediately to discuss payment options or potential arrangements.
3. What are the operating hours for the DDS reinstatement services in DeKalb County? The primary DDS location for DeKalb residents is at 2801 Candler Road, Suite 82, Decatur, GA 30034. They are open Tuesday - Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.; Saturday: 7:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and closed Sunday and Monday.

Sources

• DeKalb County Police Property Room
• Georgia Department of Public Safety Statewide Maximum Rate Tariff No. 5
• DeKalb Committee Defers Decision on Proposed Towing, Impound Fee Increases for 30 Days
• Georgia Code § 40-11-1 et seq.
• Georgia Department of Driver Services - Decatur