Upson County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Upson County

**(dui.guide - Your Guide to Navigating DUI Charges in Upson County, GA)*Being arrested for DUI in Upson County is a stressful experience, and one of your immediate concerns is likely what happens to your vehicle. Typically, after a DUI arrest, your vehicle is impounded and towed to a local impound lot. This is done for several reasons: to ensure public safety, to prevent further operation of the vehicle by an impaired driver, and to preserve evidence related to the DUI charge. Understanding the process for retrieving your vehicle is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to get your car back after a DUI arrest in Upson County.

Where Is Your Car?

After a DUI arrest in Upson County, your vehicle is likely towed to one of the following impound lots:

• HUTCHENS TOWING: 453 Gordon School Rd, Thomaston, GA 30286
• Boggs Towing: 1772 US-19, Thomaston, GA 30286

It's important to determine exactly where your car was taken as soon as possible to start the retrieval process.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Here are a few ways to locate your impounded vehicle:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with documentation that includes the name and contact information of the towing company that impounded your vehicle.
• Call the Upson County Sheriff's Office: Contact the Upson County Sheriff's Office at (706) 647-7411. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and date of arrest. They should be able to tell you where your vehicle was towed.
• Reference your booking number: Your booking number, assigned at the Upson County jail, can help the Sheriff's Office quickly locate your vehicle information.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, gather all the necessary documents to avoid delays and ensure a smooth retrieval process.

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 need to prove ownership of the vehicle. Bring the vehicle registration or title.
• Proof of insurance: You must demonstrate 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. In this case, you have two options:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A licensed driver can 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.
• The vehicle title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Upson County

Retrieval costs can quickly add up, so understanding the fees involved is crucial.

• Daily Storage Fee: Contact the impound lots for the current daily rates. Storage fees begin accruing the moment your vehicle is impounded.

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

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. HUTCHENS TOWING and Boggs Towing may accept cash, credit cards, and/or money orders. Confirming beforehand will save you a potentially wasted trip.

Timeline

Act Immediately

The key to minimizing costs is to act quickly. Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day your vehicle remains in the impound lot, the fees increase.

After 30 Days

If a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period, Georgia law allows the impound lot to initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. Typically, this occurs after 30 days. Do not let it reach this point. You will lose ownership of your vehicle.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

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

• 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. It's worth asking, though not all do.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: A DUI attorney in Upson County may be able to negotiate or challenge the fees in some cases.

After Retrieval

Before driving your vehicle off 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 impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take photos of any dents, scratches, or other 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 leaving the premises. This will help protect your rights if you need to file a claim for damages later.

Retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Upson County requires prompt action and careful attention to detail. By understanding the procedures, required documents, and associated costs, you can navigate this process efficiently and minimize the financial burden. Remember, consulting with a DUI attorney in Upson County can provide you with personalized guidance and ensure your rights are protected throughout the DUI process.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does the impound lot have to hold my car in Upson County? Generally, they will hold it until fees are paid, or until a lien sale is initiated (typically after 30 days).
• Can someone else pick up my car for me if I'm still in jail in Upson County? Yes, with a signed authorization letter and the required documents, a licensed driver can retrieve your vehicle.
• What happens if I can't afford to get my car out of impound in Upson County? The impound lot can eventually sell your car to recoup their fees. Contact them to discuss options.