Spalding County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Spalding County

After a DUI arrest in Spalding County, Georgia, one of your immediate concerns is likely getting your vehicle back. Vehicles are typically impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons: to ensure public safety, prevent further illegal activity involving the vehicle, and as part of standard procedure following an arrest. This guide provides specific information on locating your vehicle, gathering the necessary documents, understanding the costs involved, and navigating the retrieval process in Spalding County.

Where Is Your Car?

Your vehicle was likely towed to one of the impound lots authorized by the Spalding County Sheriff's Office. Here are two known impound locations:

• B&T TOWING LLC: 1426 Meriwether St, Griffin, GA 30224
• Twisted Hook LLC: 1121 Anne St, Griffin, GA 30224

How to Find Your Vehicle

If you're unsure where your car was towed, here are a few ways to find out:

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with paperwork that includes the name and contact information of the towing company.
• Call the Spalding County Sheriff's Office: You can call the non-emergency line at the Spalding County Sheriff's Office to inquire about your vehicle's location.
• Reference Your Booking Number: When you call, have your booking number ready. This will help the Sheriff's Office locate your information quickly.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

To retrieve your vehicle from the impound lot, you'll need to provide specific documentation and payment.

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle Registration or Title: You must provide proof of ownership, such as the vehicle's registration or title.
• Proof of Insurance: You must show current proof of insurance for the vehicle.
• 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 or you don't have a valid license for any other reason, you can still have someone else retrieve the vehicle for you. They will need:

• Their Valid Driver's License: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• A Signed Authorization Letter from You: You must provide a signed letter authorizing them to pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• Vehicle Title or Registration: They must also present the vehicle's title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Spalding County

Towing and storage fees can accumulate quickly, so it's crucial to understand the costs involved. Contact the specific impound lot where your car is located to confirm their exact fee structure and payment options.

Based on available data:

• B&T TOWING LLC has a daily storage fee of $N/A.
• Twisted Hook LLC has a daily storage fee of $N/A.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue every day, including weekends and holidays. The longer you wait, the more expensive it will be to get your car back.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm which payment methods they accept. Some may accept cash, credit cards, or money orders. Be prepared to pay the full amount due before they release your vehicle.

Timeline

Act Immediately

The clock starts ticking the moment your vehicle is towed. Storage fees begin accumulating immediately.

After 30 Days

If a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days or more), Georgia law allows the impound lot to initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This means they can sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding towing and storage fees. Do everything you can to avoid this.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're facing financial hardship and can't afford the towing and storage fees, consider the following options:

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Ask for assistance from someone who can help cover the costs.
• Ask About a Payment Plan: Some impound lots may be willing to work with you on a payment plan, but this is not guaranteed. Inquire directly with the lot.

After Retrieval

Before driving your vehicle away from the impound lot, take these steps:

• Inspect the Vehicle: Carefully inspect the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in the lot's possession.
• Document Any Damage: Take photos of any damage you find.
• Report Damage: Immediately 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: How long does the Spalding County Sheriff's Office typically hold vehicles after a DUI arrest? A: The Sheriff's Office doesn't "hold" vehicles. They are immediately towed to an authorized impound lot. The length of time the vehicle remains at the lot depends on how quickly you retrieve it and pay the associated fees.

Q: Can I get a temporary permit to drive my impounded car to work in Spalding County? A: No, a temporary permit for that purpose is not available. You must have a valid license and insurance to retrieve the vehicle, or have someone with a valid license retrieve it for you.

Q: What happens to my car if I am incarcerated after a DUI arrest in Spalding County? A: Your vehicle will continue to accrue storage fees at the impound lot. You will need to make arrangements for someone to retrieve it on your behalf, or the lot may eventually initiate a lien sale.