Glynn County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Glynn County

After a DUI arrest in Glynn County, one of your most immediate concerns will likely be retrieving your vehicle. Because you are legally unable to drive after being arrested for DUI, law enforcement will impound your vehicle to ensure public safety. This guide provides the essential steps to locate, claim, and retrieve your vehicle as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Where Is Your Car?

The Glynn County Police Department, Brunswick Police Department, and the Georgia State Patrol utilize a rotational list of pre-approved, certified private wrecker services. Glynn County does not operate a centralized municipal impound lot. To find your car, you'll need to determine which towing company has it.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have noted the name of the towing company on your release documents. This is the quickest way to identify where your vehicle was taken.
• Call the Glynn County Police Department non-emergency line: If you can't find the information on your paperwork, call the GCPD Non-Emergency line at 912-554-7800. They can help you determine which company has your vehicle.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number from the Glynn County Detention Center can expedite the search.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Retrieving your vehicle requires specific documentation and payment. Be prepared to present the following:

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You, or the person retrieving the vehicle, must have a valid, state-issued driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is essential. Bring either the vehicle's registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: You must demonstrate that the vehicle is currently insured.
• 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, you can still have someone else retrieve the vehicle for you. Here's what they'll need:

• Their valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid license.
• A signed authorization letter from you: A notarized letter authorizing them to pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• Vehicle title or registration: Proof of ownership.
• Vehicle's valid insurance documentation.

Costs & Fees in Glynn County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly. It's crucial to understand the potential costs involved. The Georgia Department of Public Safety (DPS) regulates these fees.

• Tow Fee: The maximum base removal fee is $175.00.
• Daily Storage Rate: The maximum storage fee is $15.00 per day (statutorily cannot be charged for the first 24 hours).
• Admin/Processing Fee: The maximum cumulative notification fee is $91.00.
• After-Hours Release?: Yes. Regulated maximum gate fee of $65.00 applies for after-hours retrieval.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day after the first 24 hours. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize expenses. Under Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. R. 515-16-15-.03, towing operators are strictly prohibited from charging or collecting storage fees for days on which the impound lot is closed or otherwise unavailable to the vehicle owner for redemption.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Most accept cash, and many accept major credit cards and money orders. Operators are legally prohibited from charging extra fees for card use.

Timeline

Act Immediately

The clock starts ticking the moment your vehicle is towed. Storage fees begin accruing 24 hours after impoundment.

After 30 Days

If a vehicle sits unclaimed for 30 days, the towing company can begin the process of declaring it abandoned and selling it at auction to recover their fees. Don't let it get to this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

The costs associated with retrieving an impounded vehicle can be a significant burden. Here are a few options if you're struggling to afford the fees:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance in covering the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some lots may offer payment plans, but this is not guaranteed.

After Retrieval

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully check for any damage that may have occurred while the vehicle was in the impound lot's possession.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photos of any damage as evidence.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Make sure to document your report and obtain a copy for your records.

Retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Glynn County requires prompt action and careful attention to detail. By following these steps, you can navigate the process effectively and minimize the financial impact. Browse licensed bail bondsmen serving Glynn County in our bail bond directory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to get my car out of impound in Glynn County before it's sold? A: In Georgia, if your vehicle remains unclaimed for 30 days, the impound lot can begin the process to declare it abandoned and sell it at auction.

Q: Can the impound lot charge me storage fees for days they are closed? A: No. Under Georgia DPS regulations, towing operators are strictly prohibited from charging or collecting storage fees for days on which the impound lot is closed or otherwise unavailable to the vehicle owner for redemption.

Q: What if the car isn't mine? Can my spouse or family member pick it up? A: Yes, but they will need to provide a notarized letter of authorization from the registered owner, a copy of the owner's valid identification, and the vehicle's valid insurance documentation.