New Hanover County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in New Hanover County

Being arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in New Hanover County can trigger a cascade of stressful events, and one of the most immediate concerns is often the status of your vehicle. North Carolina law allows law enforcement to impound vehicles following a DUI arrest, especially if there's no sober, licensed driver available to take possession. This guide provides practical steps to locate, retrieve, and handle the costs associated with getting your car back.

Where Is Your Car?

After a DUI arrest, your vehicle is typically towed to a local impound lot. The Wilmington Police Department's policy allows for the seizure of vehicles in DWI cases. Knowing where your car is located is the first crucial step in the retrieval process.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Several methods can help you determine where your vehicle was towed:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating the name of the towing company and the location where your vehicle was taken.
• Call the New Hanover County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: You can contact the New Hanover County Sheriff's Office by calling 910-798-4200 and provide them with your name, date of birth, and vehicle description to inquire about the vehicle's location.
• Reference your booking number: Your booking number, assigned when you were processed at the New Hanover County Detention Facility at 3950 Juvenile Center Road, Castle Hayne, NC 28429, can help law enforcement quickly locate your vehicle information.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your vehicle is impounded, gather the necessary documents to claim it.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You or the person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is essential. Bring the vehicle's registration or title.
• Proof of insurance: You must demonstrate that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay towing and storage fees (more on this below).

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you can still have someone else retrieve the vehicle for you. They will need:

• Their valid driver's license.
• A signed authorization letter from you: This letter should clearly state that you authorize them to pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• Vehicle title or registration: To prove ownership.

Costs & Fees in New Hanover County

Towing and storage fees can quickly add up, making it crucial to act fast. While specific impound lot data is unavailable, here's a general idea of what to expect:

Typical towing fees in North Carolina generally range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees typically run between $25 and $50 per day. However, these fees can vary significantly between different lots.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily, starting from the moment your vehicle is towed. The sooner you retrieve your vehicle, the less you will pay.

Payment

Before heading to the impound lot, call them to confirm their accepted payment methods. Some accept cash, credit cards, or money orders, while others may have more limited options.

Timeline

Act Immediately

The clock starts ticking the moment your vehicle is towed. Storage fees accumulate daily, so delaying retrieval will only increase the financial burden.

After 30 Days

In North Carolina, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (usually around 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. To prevent this, act quickly to retrieve your vehicle.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're facing financial hardship and struggling to cover the towing and storage fees, consider the following options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance to help cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans or arrangements to help you manage the expenses.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: An attorney may be able to negotiate fees or challenge them if they are unreasonable.

After Retrieval

Before driving away with your vehicle, take these essential steps:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while in the impound lot's possession.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear 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 in writing about any damage you discovered before leaving the premises. This documentation can be crucial if you need to file a claim later.

Navigating the process of retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in New Hanover County can be challenging, but by following these steps, you can minimize costs and ensure a smoother experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

**1. Can someone else pick up my car for me if my license is suspended in New Hanover County?*Yes, a licensed driver can retrieve your vehicle. They'll need their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you, and the vehicle's registration or title.

**2. What happens if I can't afford to pay the towing and storage fees in New Hanover County?*Explore options like asking for help from family or friends, inquiring about payment plans with the impound lot, or consulting with a DUI attorney to explore potential fee negotiation.

**3. Where is the New Hanover County Detention Facility located?*The New Hanover County Detention Facility is located at 3950 Juvenile Center Road, Castle Hayne, NC 28429.