Iredell County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Iredell County

After a DUI arrest in Iredell County, North Carolina, one of your immediate concerns is likely retrieving your vehicle. Vehicles are typically impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons: to ensure public safety, to prevent the driver from continuing to operate the vehicle under the influence, and as part of standard arrest procedures. Understanding the process of locating, paying for, and retrieving your vehicle can save you significant time and money.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is determining where your vehicle was towed. Iredell County does not have a central, county-run impound lot. Instead, law enforcement agencies use a rotation of private towing companies. The specific company that towed your vehicle depends on the arresting agency and the circumstances of your arrest.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with documentation that includes the name and contact information of the towing company that impounded your vehicle. This is the quickest and most direct way to locate your car.
• Call the Iredell County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot locate your paperwork, contact the Iredell County Sheriff's Office at (704) 878-3131. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and date of arrest, and they may be able to provide you with the towing company's information.
• Reference your booking number: Your booking number, assigned during the booking process at the Iredell County Jail & Detention Center, can help the Sheriff's Office locate your records more efficiently.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your vehicle is impounded, contact the towing company to confirm their operating hours, accepted payment methods, and required documents for release.

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. This is a critical requirement.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must provide proof of ownership. A copy of the vehicle registration or the original title will suffice.
• Proof of insurance: You will need to show proof of current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all applicable towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

Because your license is likely suspended after a DUI arrest, you may not have a valid driver's license. In this case, you have two options:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: The easiest solution is to have a licensed individual retrieve 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, and the vehicle's title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Iredell County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the costs is crucial.

Typical towing fees in North Carolina average around $200, plus mileage. Daily storage fees typically range from $25 to $50 per day. However, these fees vary by towing company.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily, starting the moment your vehicle is towed. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes to retrieve your vehicle.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm which payment methods they accept. Most accept cash, and many accept credit cards. Some may also accept money orders or certified checks. Do not assume they accept a particular form of payment; always verify beforehand.

Timeline

Act Immediately

The key to minimizing costs is to act immediately. Contact the towing company as soon as you are released from custody to determine the exact location of your vehicle and the steps required for retrieval.

After 30 Days

If a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period, typically 30 days, the towing company has the right to initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This means they can legally sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding towing and storage fees. To avoid this, retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider the following options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance from someone who can help cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some towing companies may offer payment plans or allow you to pay the fees in installments. It's worth asking, but don't expect it.

After Retrieval

Before driving your vehicle off the impound lot, take the following precautions:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in the towing company's possession.
• Document any damage with photos: Take detailed photographs of any scratches, dents, or other damage.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Notify the lot manager of any damage in writing and obtain a copy of the report for your records. This is essential if you plan to file a claim for damages.

By understanding the impound and retrieval process, acting quickly, and taking the necessary precautions, you can navigate this challenging situation and get your vehicle back as smoothly as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I get my personal belongings out of the car before I retrieve it? You may be able to retrieve essential personal items from the vehicle before paying the full impound fees. Contact the towing company to arrange a time to do so. They may require you to be escorted by an employee while you remove your belongings.
• What happens if my car was seized because I was driving on a revoked license? If your vehicle was seized under North Carolina's "Run and You're Done" laws because you were driving on a revoked license due to a prior DWI, the vehicle may be subject to civil forfeiture. In this case, the vehicle may be transported to Eastway Wrecker in Charlotte, and the process for retrieval will be more complex, potentially involving court proceedings.
• What if I believe the tow was illegal or unjustified? If you believe the impoundment was legally erroneous, you may request a Stypmann Hearing (or equivalent state administrative hearing) to challenge the validity of the tow. If the hearing officer determines the tow was unlawful, the vehicle must be released at no expense, and any previously paid fees must be reimbursed.