Pickens County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Pickens County

**(dui.guide - Your Guide to DUI in Pickens, GA)*Being arrested for DUI in Pickens County, Georgia is a stressful situation, and one of the immediate concerns is often: what happens to my car? This guide provides practical information on how to retrieve your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Pickens County. We understand you're dealing with a lot right now, and we're here to help navigate this process.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

After a DUI arrest in Pickens County, your vehicle is typically impounded for two main reasons:

• Public Safety: To prevent you from driving under the influence again immediately after your arrest.
• Legal Requirements: Georgia law allows for vehicle impoundment in DUI cases.

Understanding the impound process and acting quickly is crucial to minimizing fees and getting your car back as soon as possible.

Where Is Your Car?

Your car has likely been towed to an official impound lot in Pickens County. It's vital to determine where your vehicle is located to begin the retrieval process. Here are a couple of known impound lots:

• North GA Roadside, LLC: 144 February Lane, Ellijay, GA 30540. Phone: (706) 889-1892.
• S & S Towing: 3845 Conns Creek Rd, Ball Ground, GA 30107. Phone: (470) 630-3911.

How to Find Your Vehicle

If your vehicle was not taken to the locations listed above, here are a few ways to locate your impounded vehicle:

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The towing company's name and contact information are often listed on the paperwork you received at the time of your arrest. This is the fastest way to find your vehicle.
• Call the Pickens County Sheriff's Office: Contact the Pickens County Sheriff's Office at (706) 253-8901. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and date of arrest.
• Reference Your Booking Number: If you have your booking number from the jail, provide it to the Sheriff's Office. This will help them quickly locate your vehicle's impound location.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Retrieving your vehicle requires specific documentation and payment of fees. Be prepared to provide the following:

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is essential. Bring your vehicle registration or vehicle title.
• Proof of insurance: You'll need to show proof that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Impound lots typically accept cash or credit cards. Check with the specific lot to confirm accepted payment methods.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot retrieve the vehicle yourself. You'll need someone else to pick it up for you. That person will need:

• Their valid driver's license: They must have a valid, unexpired license.
• Authorization from you: A signed statement authorizing them to retrieve the vehicle on your behalf. A notarized letter is preferable.
• Vehicle title or registration: Proof of ownership is required.

Costs & Fees in Pickens County

The costs associated with vehicle impoundment can add up quickly. Understanding these fees is crucial for planning your retrieval.

• North GA Roadside, LLC: Daily Fee: N/A.
• S & S Towing: Daily Fee: N/A.

It is best to call the specific impound lot to inquire about all applicable fees.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. The longer you wait, the more expensive it will be to get your car back. Act quickly to minimize costs.

Payment

Call the impound lot before you go to confirm accepted payment methods. Some only accept cash, while others may take credit cards or money orders.

Timeline

Understanding the timeline is critical to avoiding further complications.

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day you wait costs you more money. Contact the impound lot immediately to determine the exact fees and payment options.

After 30 Days

Most states, including Georgia, allow the impound lot to initiate a lien sale if the vehicle remains unclaimed after a certain period (typically 30 days). This means they can sell your car to recover their costs. Do not let it reach this point!

If You Can't Afford the Fees

We understand that the fees associated with vehicle impoundment can be a financial burden. Here are some options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Asking for financial assistance from loved ones can be a viable solution.
• Payment plans: Some impound lots may offer payment plans. Inquire about this option when you contact the lot.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, a DUI attorney may be able to negotiate with the impound lot or challenge excessive fees.

What NOT to Do

• Don't wait: Procrastinating will only increase the fees.
• Don't abandon the vehicle: Abandoning the vehicle can lead to further legal consequences and negative impacts on your credit score.

After Retrieval

Once you've retrieved your vehicle, take the following steps before you leave the impound lot:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take photos and make detailed notes of any dents, scratches, or other damage.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing: Report any damage to the impound lot manager immediately and request a written acknowledgment of your report. This documentation is crucial if you need to file a claim for damages.

Disclaimer: *This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Laws and procedures can change. Contacting a qualified attorney in Pickens County, Georgia, is highly recommended to protect your rights.## Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does the impound lot hold my car in Pickens County? A: Generally, impound lots will hold your car for about 30 days before starting the process to sell it at auction. However, it's best to contact the specific lot holding your vehicle to confirm their exact policy.

Q: What happens if my car is sold at auction in Pickens County? A: If your car is sold at auction, the impound lot will use the proceeds to cover the towing and storage fees. Any remaining funds may be returned to you, but you will lose ownership of the vehicle.

Q: Can someone else pick up my car for me in Pickens County if my license is suspended? A: Yes, someone with a valid driver's license can pick up your car for you. They will need a signed authorization letter from you and proof of ownership (vehicle title or registration).