Guilford County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Guilford County

Being arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Guilford County can be a stressful and confusing experience. Beyond the legal ramifications, you're also faced with the immediate problem of your impounded vehicle. This guide provides practical steps to locate, retrieve, and handle the associated costs of getting your car back. Understanding the process and acting quickly is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications.

Where Is Your Car?

When you are arrested for DUI, the Guilford County Sheriff's Office or the Greensboro Police Department will typically have your vehicle towed and impounded. The arresting officer should inform you of the vehicle's location and provide documentation. However, if you're unsure or have lost the paperwork, you have several ways to find out where your car is being held.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The paperwork provided by the arresting officer should include the name and contact information of the towing company that took your vehicle. Look carefully through all the documents you received at the time of your arrest.
• Call the Guilford County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot locate the paperwork or need further clarification, contact the Guilford County Sheriff's Office at their non-emergency phone number. You can find contact information on the Guilford County Sheriff's Office Online Services page. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and the date of your arrest, and they should be able to provide the impound location.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number readily available when contacting the Sheriff's Office will expedite the process of locating your vehicle.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, you'll need specific documentation to retrieve it. The impound lot will require proof of ownership and your ability to legally operate the vehicle (or have someone else do so).

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or a licensed person picking it up for you): You, or the person retrieving the vehicle on your behalf, must have a valid driver's license. A suspended license will prevent you from reclaiming the car yourself.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must prove ownership of the vehicle. A current vehicle registration or the vehicle title will suffice.
• Proof of insurance: You need to demonstrate that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all towing and storage fees. Contact the impound lot ahead of time to determine the exact amount and accepted payment methods.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you can still retrieve your vehicle by having a licensed individual do so on your behalf. They will need to present the following:

• Their valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid, unexpired driver's license.
• A signed authorization letter from you: You must provide a written and signed letter authorizing the individual to pick up the vehicle on your behalf. The letter should include your name, date of birth, vehicle description, and the name of the person authorized to retrieve it.
• Vehicle title or registration: As proof of your ownership.

Costs & Fees in Guilford County

Towing and storage fees can accumulate quickly, adding a significant financial burden to an already difficult situation.

Typical towing fees in North Carolina generally range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees are usually between $25 and $50 per day. It is crucial to remember that these are estimates, and actual fees may vary.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize expenses.

Payment

Contact the specific impound lot holding your vehicle before you go to pick it up. Confirm their exact fees, accepted forms of payment (cash, credit card, money order), and any other specific requirements.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when dealing with an impounded vehicle.

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes. Start the retrieval process as soon as possible.

After 30 Days

In North Carolina, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period (typically 30 days), the impound lot may have the right to initiate a lien sale to recover the outstanding fees. This means they can sell your vehicle to cover the costs. Do everything you can to prevent this from happening.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, explore the following 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 offer payment plans, allowing you to pay off the fees in installments. It's worth asking, but be aware that they are not obligated to offer this option.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: A DUI attorney may be able to negotiate with the impound lot or challenge the fees in some cases.

After Retrieval

Before leaving the impound lot with your vehicle, take the following precautions:

• 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 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 the damage in writing before you leave the premises. This creates a record of the damage and can be helpful if 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 Guilford County and minimize potential financial and logistical challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where will my car be impounded after a DUI arrest in High Point? The arresting officer should inform you where the vehicle was towed. If you are unsure, call the Guilford County Sheriff's Office to confirm the impound location, as High Point has a separate detention facility. Referencing Driving directions to Guilford County Jail may help to find the exact location.
2. Can someone else pick up my car from the impound lot if my license is suspended in Guilford County? Yes, you can have a licensed driver retrieve your vehicle. You will need to provide them with a signed authorization letter, your vehicle registration or title, and they will need to present their valid driver's license.
3. What happens if I don't pick up my car from the impound lot in Guilford County? If your vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically around 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover the outstanding fees. You will lose ownership of the vehicle.