Johnston County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Johnston County

After a DUI arrest in Johnston County, North Carolina, one of your immediate concerns is likely getting your vehicle back. When you're arrested for driving under the influence, your car is typically impounded. This is because you are no longer legally able to drive it, and it can't be left unattended at the roadside. Understanding the process for vehicle retrieval is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to help you navigate the process of getting your car back.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is determining where your vehicle was towed. Johnston County does not operate a municipal tow fleet. Instead, it utilizes a "Rotation Wrecker" system.

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. Look for this information on the documents you received at the time of your arrest.
• Call the Johnston County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot locate the paperwork or the information is missing, contact the Johnston County Sheriff's Office at (919) 989-5010. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and date of arrest, and they should be able to tell you where your vehicle was towed.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number ready when you call can expedite the process. The Sheriff's Office can use this number to quickly locate your records and provide the necessary information.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your car is impounded, gather the necessary documents for retrieval.

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. If your license was suspended due to the DUI arrest, you will need someone else to pick up the vehicle.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must prove that you own the vehicle. Bring the vehicle registration or title as proof of ownership.
• Proof of insurance: You'll need to demonstrate that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot legally drive the vehicle. In this case:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: Ask a licensed friend or family member to pick up the vehicle for you.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle, and the vehicle title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Johnston County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so it's important to understand the potential costs involved. Recent North Carolina legislation (H.B. 1037 / H.B. 199) has introduced regulatory caps and operational mandates to protect consumers.

Typical towing fees in North Carolina range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees typically range from $25 to $50 per day. However, fees can vary depending on the towing company and the circumstances of the impound. Call the specific impound lot ahead of time to confirm their exact fees before you go.

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

Payment

North Carolina law mandates that towing companies accept credit cards and debit cards. The practice of holding a vehicle hostage for "cash only" is now prohibited. Processing fees for cards are capped at the actual cost or 2%. Call the impound lot in advance to confirm which payment methods they accept.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Every day your vehicle sits in the impound lot, you incur additional storage fees. It's crucial to act quickly to minimize these costs.

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 fees. This means they can legally sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding charges. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are struggling to afford the towing and storage fees:

• 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 or allow you to pay the fees in installments. It's worth asking if this is an option.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, a DUI attorney may be able to negotiate with the towing company or challenge the fees if they are unreasonable.

After Retrieval

Before driving away with your vehicle:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take photos of any dents, scratches, or other damage you find.
• 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 will help protect your rights if you need to file a claim for damages later.

Navigating the vehicle retrieval process after a DUI arrest can be stressful. By understanding the steps involved and acting promptly, you can minimize costs and get your car back as quickly as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where in Johnston County will my breathalyzer test be administered? According to research, the primary testing facility is the Detention Center in Smithfield.

2. What happens if my Johnston County DWI charge is coupled with a domestic violence offense? Under N.C.G.S. 15A-534.1, a Magistrate does not have the authority to set bond in domestic violence cases for the first 48 hours. Bond must be set by a District Court Judge.

3. If my vehicle is towed in Smithfield, what parking violations might cause it to be immediately removed? The town enforces specific ordinances regarding traffic obstruction. Vehicles parked in violation of Section 10-59 (e.g., blocking driveways or within 15 feet of hydrants) are subject to immediate removal.