Craven County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Craven County

After a DUI arrest in Craven County, North Carolina, one of your immediate concerns is likely, "Where is my car, and how do I get it back?" Vehicles are commonly impounded following a DUI arrest to prevent further operation by the impaired driver. Understanding the process, required documents, and associated costs is crucial for a swift and cost-effective retrieval. This guide provides the practical steps you need to take to recover your vehicle.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Craven County, law enforcement will arrange to have your vehicle towed and stored at an impound lot. This is standard procedure under NC law § 20-138.1 and related statutes. The arresting officer will typically choose the towing company based on a pre-arranged rotation, or in the case of the New Bern Police Department (NBPD), a specific service agreement. Your vehicle will remain impounded until you, or someone authorized by you, retrieves it after fulfilling certain requirements and paying associated fees.

Where Is Your Car?

Locating your vehicle is the first step. Different law enforcement agencies in Craven County use different procedures. The Craven County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) uses a county-wide rotation wrecker list, while the New Bern Police Department (NBPD) often utilizes J&S Wrecker Service. If you were arrested by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP), your vehicle may have been towed to a lot further away, depending on the rotation for that zone.

One common impound lot in Craven County is:

• J&S Wrecker Service: 1806 Old Airport Rd, New Bern. Phone: N/A.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating the name and contact information of the towing company.
• Call the Craven County Sheriff's Office: If you can't locate the paperwork, you can try contacting the CCSO non-emergency line for assistance.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number ready when you call can expedite the search.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, ensure you have all the necessary documents to avoid delays and additional fees.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest (Civil Revocation), a licensed individual will need to accompany you to drive the vehicle off the lot.
• Vehicle registration or title: This proves ownership of the vehicle.
• Proof of insurance: This confirms the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all applicable towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended, you have a few options:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: This is the most common solution.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle, and the vehicle's registration or title.

Costs & Fees in Craven County

Retrieving your vehicle can be costly, and understanding the fee structure is essential.

• Standard Tow: Expect to pay between $150 and $300 for the initial tow.
• Daily Storage Fee: J&S Wrecker Service charges $N/A per day for storage.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day, so retrieving your vehicle as quickly as possible is critical.

Payment

Call J&S Wrecker Service in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Many tow companies in Craven County prefer cash or certified funds, though some may accept credit cards. House Bill 1037 aimed to mandate credit card acceptance, but cash is still prevalent.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day your vehicle remains at J&S Wrecker Service costs you money.

After 30 Days

Under North Carolina law, if your vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), J&S Wrecker Service can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are struggling to afford the impound fees, consider these options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance in covering the costs.
• Ask J&S Wrecker Service if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment arrangements.
• Consult with your DUI attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate or challenge the fees. Legal Aid of North Carolina may be able to offer civil legal assistance if you qualify.

After Retrieval

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while in impound.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photos of any damage as evidence.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Obtain a written acknowledgment of your damage report from the lot manager.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where will my car be impounded if I am arrested by the Havelock Police Department? A: If you are arrested by the Havelock Police Department, especially near MCAS Cherry Point, the logistics of release may involve coordination with military authorities, and the impound location will depend on their procedures and any agreements with local towing companies.

Q: What happens if I can't retrieve my car from J&S Wrecker Service because my license is suspended and I don't have anyone to drive it? A: You should immediately contact J&S Wrecker Service to explain your situation and explore possible solutions, such as arranging for a professional towing service to move the vehicle to your home or another location. Continuing to communicate will prevent them from initiating a lien sale.

Q: Can I contest the towing of my vehicle in Craven County after a DUI arrest? A: Yes, under N.C.G.S. 20-219.11, you have the right to a hearing to contest the validity of the impoundment. You must file a request with the Craven County Magistrate (1100 Clarks Road). The hearing is typically set within 72 hours of your request.