Henry County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Henry County

Being arrested for DUI in Henry County can be a stressful experience, and one of the immediate concerns is often, "What happens to my car?" Vehicles are typically impounded after a DUI arrest for several reasons: to prevent further impaired driving, as part of evidence gathering, or due to standard operating procedures of the arresting agency. This guide provides practical steps to help you navigate the process of retrieving your vehicle as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is determining where your vehicle was towed. In Henry County, the arresting officer will typically arrange for a towing company to remove your vehicle from the scene. The name of this company will be documented on the paperwork you received at the time of your arrest. If you cannot locate this information, contact the Henry County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line to inquire about the location of your vehicle. Providing your booking number can help them locate the information more quickly.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The tow company's name and contact information should be listed on the documents provided by the arresting officer.
• Call the Henry County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot find the paperwork, contact the Henry County Sheriff's Office to inquire about the location of your vehicle.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number readily available when contacting the Sheriff's Office will expedite the process.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your vehicle is located, gather the necessary documents for retrieval. You will typically need the following:

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You will need to present a valid driver's license to retrieve your vehicle. If your license was suspended due to the DUI arrest, see the section below.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is essential. Bring your vehicle registration or title.
• Proof of insurance: You must demonstrate that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay towing and storage fees (more on this below).

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your driver's license was suspended or seized during the DUI arrest, you have two options:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: You can authorize a licensed driver to pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle, and the vehicle's title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Henry County

Retrieving your vehicle involves paying towing and storage fees. Towing fees in Georgia typically range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees can range from $25 to $50 per day. Remember that these are just estimates; the exact amounts will vary depending on the specific towing company and the circumstances of the impound.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes to get your car back.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Some lots accept cash only, while others may take credit cards or money orders. New Image Towing, for example, operates on a "Cash Only" policy. Knowing this information beforehand will save you time and potential frustration.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when it comes to retrieving your vehicle.

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Each passing day adds to the total cost.

After 30 Days

In Georgia, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically around 30 days), the impound lot has the right to initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This means they can sell your vehicle to the public to pay off the outstanding fees. Avoid this scenario by acting promptly.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider these options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance in covering the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans to help you manage the expenses.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate the fees or challenge their validity.

After Retrieval

Before driving away from the impound lot, take the following precautions:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in the tow company's possession.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photographs of any dents, scratches, or other damage.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Notify the impound lot manager of the damage in writing and obtain a copy of the report for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long do I have to pick up my personal belongings from my car if it's impounded in Henry County? While the jail retains valuables, you'll need to retrieve personal clothing items quickly, or they may be discarded.
• What happens if I can't afford to get my car out of impound in Henry County? Act fast to avoid lien sales; speak with the impound lot about payment plans, and consult with your attorney for options.
• Where do I get the Vehicle Release Form if my car was impounded by the Henry County Police Department? You need to physically go to the HCPD Records Unit at 108 South Zack Hinton Parkway, McDonough, GA.

Sources

• Henry County Portable Electronic Device Policy
• Henry County Community Service Program
• Henry County Property Evidence
• Henry County Sentence Enforcement
• Henry County Sheriff's Office Inmate Telephone Services
• Henry County Sheriff's Office Jail Operations
• Henry County Sheriff's Office Inmate Property Services
• Georgia DDS Locust Grove Location
• Georgia DDS Locust Grove Kiosk