Bertie County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Bertie County

Following a DUI arrest in Bertie County, North Carolina, your vehicle is typically impounded. This is standard procedure, as you are legally unable to drive after being charged with impaired driving. Understanding the process for retrieving your vehicle is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications. This guide provides the steps you need to take to get your car back as quickly as possible.

Where Is Your Car?

Your vehicle was likely towed to one of the following impound lots serving Bertie County:

• B & D Towing & Recovery LLC: 708 Mumford Rd, Greenville, NC 27834
• C&S towing and recovery llc: 5862 NC-30, Bethel, NC 27812

While the exact master list for the Bertie County Sheriff's Office is managed internally by the dispatch center, regional operators serve eastern North Carolina.

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 documentation indicating the name and contact information of the towing company.
• Call the Bertie County Sheriff's Office: Contact the non-emergency line to inquire about the location of your vehicle.
• Reference your booking number: Providing your booking number can help them locate your vehicle information more quickly.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, ensure you have all the necessary documentation to avoid delays.

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 either the vehicle registration or the 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 retrieve the vehicle yourself. In this case:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: Designate someone with a valid license to pick up the car on your behalf.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle, and the vehicle's title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Bertie County

The costs associated with retrieving your impounded vehicle can add up quickly. Be prepared for these expenses:

• Daily Storage Fee: The daily storage fee at both B & D Towing & Recovery LLC and C&S towing and recovery llc is unavailable.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day, including weekends and holidays. The sooner you retrieve your vehicle, the less you will pay. If a defendant is arrested late on a Friday night in Windsor and remains incarcerated through the weekend due to bail processing delays or lack of funds, the storage fees accrue continuously.

Payment

Contact the specific impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Some may accept cash only, while others may take credit cards or money orders. Knowing this information beforehand will prevent unnecessary trips and delays.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when it comes to vehicle impoundment.

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Each passing day increases the total cost.

After 30 Days

In many states, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (often 30 days), the impound lot has the right to initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This means they can sell your vehicle. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

The costs associated with retrieving your vehicle can be a significant financial burden, especially given the other expenses related to a DUI arrest. If you are struggling to afford the fees:

• Contact a family member or friend: See if someone can help you cover the costs temporarily.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans or installment options. It's worth inquiring about.

After Retrieval

Once you've paid the fees and are ready to take your vehicle:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any new damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photos of any scratches, dents, 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 you leave the premises. This creates a record of your claim and strengthens your position if you need to pursue compensation for the damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long will my car be impounded after a DUI arrest in Bertie County? A: Under North Carolina law (G.S. § 20-166.3), a motor vehicle that is towed and stored at the direction of a law enforcement agency can be held as evidence for up to 20 days without a specific court order. However, in standard impaired driving cases where the vehicle itself is not retained for accident reconstruction or vehicular homicide investigations, the vehicle must be released to the owner upon the full payment of the towing and storage fees.

Q: Can I get my belongings out of my car while it's impounded? A: Contact the impound lot to ask about their policy on retrieving personal belongings from your vehicle. Some lots allow you to remove essential items.

Q: What happens if I don't retrieve my car from the impound lot in Bertie County? A: If you abandon your vehicle at the impound lot and it remains unclaimed, the lot can pursue a lien sale.