Lenoir County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Lenoir County

After a DUI arrest in Lenoir County, North Carolina, one of the first things you'll need to deal with is getting your vehicle back. When you're arrested for driving under the influence, law enforcement will typically have your vehicle towed and impounded. This is done because you are legally considered incapable of safely operating or securing the vehicle. Understanding the process for retrieving your vehicle, associated costs, and potential complications can save you time and money.

Where Is Your Car?

The most immediate question is: where was your vehicle towed? The arresting officer should provide you with paperwork indicating which towing company has your vehicle. If you don't have this information readily available, here's how to locate your car:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The towing company's name and contact information should be listed on the documents you received from the arresting officer.
• Call the Lenoir County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: You can contact the Lenoir County Sheriff's Office at their non-emergency number to inquire about the location of your vehicle. The dispatch center utilizes a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system that logs the exact wrecker service called to the scene.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number ready when you call can help expedite the process.

Webb's Automotive at 2317 Highway 258 South, Kinston, NC 28504, is listed as a primary impound lot. Fred Moody & Sons Garage at 134 Measley Rd, Kinston, NC 28504, and Keen Towing & Recovery at 2435 Norwood St SW, Lenoir, NC, are secondary rotation lots.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, you'll need to gather the necessary documents and payment to retrieve it.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid, government-issued driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You'll need to provide proof of ownership, such as the vehicle's registration or title.
• Proof of insurance: Current proof of insurance for the vehicle is required.
• Payment for fees: You'll need to pay all applicable towing and storage fees before the vehicle can be released.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot retrieve the vehicle yourself. In this case:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A licensed driver can pick up 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.

Costs & Fees in Lenoir County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly. Be prepared for these expenses:

Typical towing fees in North Carolina range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees typically range from $25 to $50 per day. Keep in mind that these are estimates, and fees can vary between different impound lots. Call the specific lot holding your vehicle to confirm their exact fees.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate on a daily basis, so the sooner you retrieve your vehicle, the less you'll have to pay.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm which payment methods they accept. Most accept cash, but some may also take credit cards or money orders.

Timeline

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

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accruing as soon as 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. To avoid this, take action as soon as possible.

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 offer payment plans to help you manage the expense.

After Retrieval

Before driving your vehicle off the lot:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in the impound lot's possession.
• 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 will help protect your rights if you need to file a claim later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to get my car out of impound in Lenoir County? A: While there's no set deadline, the impound lot can begin the process of selling your vehicle after it has been unclaimed for a certain period, typically around 30 days. Contact the specific lot for their exact policy.

Q: Can someone else pick up my car for me if I'm still in jail? A: Yes, but they will need a signed authorization from you, a copy of your photo ID, and their own valid driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance.

Q: What happens if my car was seized because I was driving on a revoked license? A: If your vehicle was seized under N.C.G.S. § 20-28.3 because you were driving on a revoked license, it will be transferred to a state contractor such as Martin Edwards & Associates in Linden, NC (Phone: 910-897-6382). You'll need a court order to get it back.