Brunswick County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Brunswick County

After a DUI arrest in Brunswick County, North Carolina, one of your immediate concerns is likely getting your vehicle back. Vehicles are commonly impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons: to ensure public safety, as evidence in the case, or due to the driver's license being suspended. Understanding the process and acting quickly is essential to minimize storage fees and avoid further complications.

Where Is Your Car?

Brunswick County utilizes a decentralized "rotation wrecker" system, meaning the Brunswick County Sheriff's Office doesn't use a single, central impound lot. Instead, various private towing companies are used on a rotating basis. Therefore, knowing where your vehicle was towed is the first step.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with paperwork that includes the name and contact information of the towing company that took your vehicle. Look for this information on any documents you received at the time of your arrest.
• Call the Brunswick County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot locate the paperwork, contact the Brunswick County Sheriff's Office at their non-emergency number. They can assist you in locating your vehicle based on your name, date of arrest, and vehicle description.
• Reference your booking number: When you call, provide your booking number, if available. This will help the Sheriff's Office locate your information more quickly.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, ensure you have all the necessary documents to avoid delays or denial of release.

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 required, such as the vehicle registration or title.
• Proof of insurance: You must provide proof that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay the 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, 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 Brunswick County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the costs involved is crucial. While specific rates vary by towing company, here's a general idea of what to expect in North Carolina:

Typical towing fees in North Carolina range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees typically range from $25 to $50 per day.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily, starting the moment your vehicle is towed. The sooner you retrieve your vehicle, the less you'll pay.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Many accept cash and major credit cards, but some may require a money order or certified check. Confirming this beforehand will save you a trip.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Every day your vehicle remains in the impound lot, you incur additional storage fees. Start the retrieval process as soon as possible after your release.

After 30 Days

In North Carolina, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period (often 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This means they can legally sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding fees. Avoid this situation by acting promptly.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider these options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance in covering the costs.
• Ask about a payment plan: Some impound lots may offer a payment plan, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. It never hurts to ask.

After Retrieval

Before driving away with your vehicle, take these important steps:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while in the impound lot.
• Document any damage: Take photos of any damage you find, both close-up and from a distance.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing: Before leaving, notify the impound lot manager of any damage you've discovered and provide them with a written notice (email is acceptable) and photos. This creates a record in case you need to file a claim later.

By following these steps, you can navigate the process of retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Brunswick County efficiently and minimize potential complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

1How long does the Brunswick County Detention Center hold someone after a DUI arrest?

Intoxicated defendants are subject to a mandatory 24-hour hold at the Brunswick County Detention Center unless released directly to a sober, responsible adult or until their BAC drops below 0.04.

2Where is the Brunswick County Detention Center located?

The Brunswick County Detention Center is located at 70 Stamp Act Drive, Bolivia, NC 28422.

3What is the best way to find out which towing company has my car in Brunswick County?

If you cannot find the information on your arrest paperwork, call the Brunswick County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line for assistance in locating your vehicle.