Camden County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Camden County

Being arrested for DUI in Camden County can be a disorienting experience. One of the immediate concerns many people face is what happens to their vehicle. North Carolina law allows law enforcement to impound vehicles following a DUI arrest for several reasons: as evidence, for public safety (preventing further impaired driving), or due to the driver's license revocation. Understanding the process for retrieving your vehicle is crucial to minimizing costs and further complications.

Where Is Your Car?

After a DUI arrest in Camden County, your vehicle will be towed and stored at a local impound lot. Because Camden County lacks its own detention facility, the Camden County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) or the North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP) will arrange for a towing service to remove your vehicle. The first step is determining which company has your car.

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 impounded your vehicle. This is the quickest way to find out where your car is located.
• Call the Camden County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can’t locate the paperwork, you can contact the CCSO non-emergency line. They should be able to provide you with the towing company's information based on your name and the date of your arrest.
• Reference your booking number: When you call the CCSO or the Albemarle District Jail (ADJ) in Elizabeth City, providing your booking number can help them locate your vehicle information more efficiently.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before you can retrieve your vehicle, you'll need to gather the necessary documents and be prepared to pay the associated fees.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or a licensed person picking it up for you): You or the person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You'll need to prove ownership of the vehicle.
• Proof of insurance: The vehicle must be insured to be legally driven.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license has been 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: Ask a trusted friend or family member with a valid license to pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you giving them permission to retrieve the vehicle, and the vehicle's title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Camden County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so it's important to be aware of the potential costs.

Typical towing fees in North Carolina generally range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees typically range from $25 to $50 per day. These fees can vary depending on the towing company and the specific circumstances of the impound.

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 their accepted payment methods. Most accept cash, and some may accept credit cards or money orders. It's best to call ahead to avoid any surprises when you arrive.

Timeline

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

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the amount you'll owe.

After 30 Days

In North Carolina, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period (typically 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. Do not let it reach this point.

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 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 on a payment plan. It's worth asking if this is an option.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: In some cases, a DUI attorney may be able to negotiate with the towing company to reduce the fees or challenge the impound altogether.

After Retrieval

Before leaving the impound lot with your vehicle, take these steps:

• 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 damage you find as evidence.
• 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 the damage and can help with any claims you may need to file.

Retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Camden County requires prompt action and careful attention to detail. By following these steps, you can navigate the process efficiently and minimize the financial burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to retrieve my vehicle before it's sold at auction in Camden County? A: Generally, impound lots in North Carolina can begin the process of selling your vehicle after around 30 days of unclaimed storage. Contact the specific lot holding your vehicle to confirm their exact policy.

Q: Can I get a temporary permit to drive my car from the impound lot if my license is suspended in Camden County? A: No. A temporary permit will not allow you to drive your vehicle from the impound lot with a suspended license. A licensed driver must retrieve the vehicle.

Q: Where will my car be impounded in Camden County? A: Camden County does not publish a list of approved impound lots. The Camden County Sheriff's Office or the North Carolina State Highway Patrol will determine where your vehicle is towed after the arrest. The impound location will be listed on your arrest paperwork.