Twiggs County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Twiggs County

**(dui.guide - Your resource for Georgia DUI information)*Being arrested for DUI in Twiggs County is stressful enough, but dealing with the impound of your vehicle adds another layer of complexity and expense. This guide provides a step-by-step explanation of how to retrieve your car after a DUI arrest, covering everything from locating your vehicle to understanding the associated costs and deadlines. Getting your car back quickly is crucial to minimize storage fees and avoid further complications.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you are arrested for DUI in Twiggs County, your vehicle is typically impounded for several reasons. First, it prevents you from driving under the influence again immediately after your release. Second, it allows law enforcement to secure the vehicle as potential evidence, if needed. After your arrest, the Twiggs County Sheriff's Office will arrange for a towing company to remove your vehicle from the scene and take it to an impound lot. It's important to remember that your vehicle will remain in impound until you, or someone authorized by you, takes the necessary steps to retrieve it.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step in getting your car back is locating it. The arresting officer should have provided you with information about where your vehicle was towed. If you don't have that information readily available, there are a few ways to find out.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The most direct way to find out where your car is located is to check the paperwork you received from the arresting officer. This paperwork usually includes the name and contact information of the towing company that impounded your vehicle.
• Call the Twiggs County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can't find the information on your paperwork, you can contact the Twiggs County Sheriff's Office at (478) 945-3357. Provide them with your name, date of arrest, and a description of your vehicle. They should be able to tell you which towing company has your car.
• Reference your booking number: When you call the Twiggs County Sheriff's Office, having your booking number readily available can expedite the process. This number is assigned to you during the booking process at the Twiggs County Jail.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your car is impounded, you need to gather the necessary documents and prepare for the associated costs.

Required Documents

You will typically need the following documents to retrieve your vehicle:

• Valid driver's license (or a licensed person picking it up for you): The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You will need to provide proof of ownership of the vehicle. This can be either the vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: You must show that the vehicle is currently insured.
• 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 cannot personally retrieve the vehicle. However, you can authorize someone else to pick it up for you.

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: Ask a friend or family member with a valid driver's license to retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license
• A signed authorization letter from you, giving them permission to retrieve your vehicle. The letter should include your name, your vehicle's make and model, the VIN, and the name of the person you are authorizing to pick it up.
• Vehicle title or registration in your name showing you own the vehicle.

Costs & Fees in Twiggs County

Retrieving your vehicle from impound can be expensive. You will be responsible for paying towing fees and daily storage fees. These fees can vary depending on the towing company and the length of time your vehicle is impounded.

Typical towing fees in Georgia run $150–$300. Daily storage fees typically range from $25–$50 per day. It is essential to call the impound lot ahead of time to confirm their specific fees and accepted payment methods.

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

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Most lots accept cash, and some accept credit cards or money orders. Be prepared to pay the full amount due before they release your vehicle.

Timeline

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

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that your vehicle remains in impound, the fees will increase. Contact the towing company as soon as possible to arrange for retrieval.

After 30 Days

Most states, including Georgia, allow the impound lot to initiate a lien sale if the vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period, typically around 30 days. This means that if you do not retrieve your vehicle and pay the outstanding fees, the towing company can sell it to recover their costs. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, there are a few options you can consider:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask a family member or friend if they can help you cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may be willing to work with you by offering a payment plan. It's worth asking if this is an option.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate with the towing company to reduce the fees or challenge the legality of the impound.

After Retrieval

Once you have paid the fees and retrieved your vehicle, there are a few important steps to take:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in impound.
• Document any damage with photos: Take photos of any damage you find.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Notify the impound lot manager of any damage in writing before you leave the premises. This will help you if you need to file a claim for damages later.

By following these steps, you can successfully retrieve your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Twiggs County and minimize the associated costs and complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

**1. How long does the impound lot have to keep my vehicle in Twiggs County?*The impound lot typically must hold your vehicle for at least 30 days before initiating a lien sale. However, it's best to retrieve it as soon as possible to avoid accumulating fees.

**2. Can I get my personal belongings out of the car before I retrieve it in Twiggs County?*Yes, you typically can retrieve personal belongings from your vehicle even if you can't afford to pay the full impound fees immediately. Contact the impound lot to arrange a time to collect your personal items. Be prepared to show proof of ownership (registration or title) and identification.

**3. What if I believe the impound was illegal in Twiggs County?*If you believe your vehicle was illegally impounded, consult with a DUI attorney as soon as possible. They can advise you on your legal options, which may include challenging the impound in court.