White County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in White

A DUI arrest in White, Georgia, is a stressful situation, and dealing with the aftermath can feel overwhelming. One immediate concern is often: "Where's my car, and how do I get it back?" This guide provides practical information to help you navigate the vehicle impound process in White, GA, and retrieve your vehicle as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in White, GA, law enforcement typically impounds your vehicle for several reasons. This is standard procedure to ensure public safety, prevent further offenses, and potentially preserve evidence related to the DUI investigation. Don't panic, but act quickly, as fees can accumulate rapidly.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding your car is the first step. The impound lot where your vehicle is stored depends on who made the arrest (White Police Department or White County Sheriff's Office) and the towing company they use.

Official Impound Lots in White

Unfortunately, we don't have specific impound lot data for White, GA, at this time. However, we can help you locate your vehicle.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Call White Police/Sheriff: The quickest way to find your car is to contact the White Police Department or the White County Sheriff's Office directly.

• White Police Department:

• White County Sheriff's Office: (Check online for official number)

• Reference your case number: When you call, provide your name and, most importantly, your case number (if you have it). This will help them locate your vehicle quickly.

• Most vehicles towed within 24 hours of arrest: Typically, your vehicle will be towed to the impound lot within 24 hours of your arrest. So, start your search as soon as possible.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your car is located, you'll need to gather the necessary documents to retrieve it.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration: You'll need the vehicle's current registration.
• Proof of insurance: Bring proof of current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• Cash or credit card for fees: Be prepared to pay the impound and towing fees. Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or you don't have a valid license for any reason, you can still have someone else retrieve the vehicle for you.

• Have someone else pick it up: A friend or family member with a valid license can pick up the car.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license.
• A signed authorization letter from you, giving them permission to retrieve the vehicle.
• The vehicle's title or registration (to prove ownership).

Costs & Fees in White

Understanding the costs involved is crucial. Impound fees can add up quickly, so prompt action is essential.

Typical Fees

• Towing fee: Expect to pay between $150 and $300 for the towing service.
• Daily storage: Daily storage fees typically range from $20 to $50 per day. This is the fee that adds up the fastest, so getting your car out quickly is vital.
• Administrative fees: There may be administrative fees associated with processing the vehicle release. Expect this to be in the range of $[Range - Placeholder].
• Release fee: This is a one-time fee charged for releasing the vehicle. Expect to pay around $[Amount - Placeholder].

IMPORTANT: These are estimates. Fees vary by towing company and impound lot. Contact the specific impound lot for exact pricing. Remember, fees accumulate daily. The longer you wait, the more you'll pay.

Payment Methods

Timeline

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

Within 24 Hours

The ideal scenario is to retrieve your vehicle within 24 hours of the impound. This minimizes the daily storage fees and reduces the overall cost.

After 30 Days

If the vehicle remains unclaimed after 30 days, the impound lot has the right to sell it at a lien sale to recover their costs. This means you could lose your vehicle permanently.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Financial hardship is a common concern after a DUI arrest. Here are some options to explore if you're struggling to afford the impound fees:

Options

• Borrow from family/friends: Asking for financial assistance from loved ones can be a viable solution.
• Payment plans: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. Inquire about this option when you contact the lot.
• Sign vehicle over to impound lot: As a last resort, you can sign the vehicle's title over to the impound lot. This will relieve you of the debt, but you'll lose ownership of the car.

What NOT to Do

• Don't wait: Procrastination will only increase the fees. Act quickly to minimize the financial burden.
• Don't abandon the vehicle: Abandoning the vehicle can lead to further legal complications and additional fines.

Special Situations

Certain circumstances can complicate the vehicle retrieval process.

If Your Car Was Evidence

If the police are holding your vehicle as evidence in the DUI investigation, it may be held longer than usual. You'll need to obtain a release authorization from the investigating officer before you can retrieve it. Contact your attorney or the police department to inquire about the release process.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

If the vehicle is registered to someone else (e.g., a parent or spouse), the registered owner has the right to retrieve the vehicle, regardless of your DUI situation. They will need to provide proof of ownership (title or registration) and a valid driver's license.

After Retrieval

Once you've retrieved your vehicle, take these steps:

Check Your Vehicle

Thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.

Document Any Damage Immediately

Take photos and videos of any damage you find.

Take Photos

Capture clear photos of the damage from multiple angles.

Report Damage to Impound Lot Manager

Immediately report any damage to the impound lot manager and file a written complaint. Keep a copy of the complaint for your records.

White Impound Lot Locations

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. It is essential to consult with an attorney to discuss the specifics of your DUI case.