Sampson County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Sampson County

Following a DUI arrest in Sampson County, North Carolina, one of your immediate concerns is likely retrieving your vehicle. Vehicles are commonly impounded after a DUI arrest for several reasons: as evidence in the case, due to driver license revocation, or because the driver was deemed incapable of safely operating the vehicle. Understanding the process for getting your car back is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is locating where your vehicle was towed. The Sampson County Sheriff's Office, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, or the Clinton Police Department may have been the arresting agency. Typically, the arresting officer will provide you with paperwork that indicates the name of the towing company and the location where your vehicle was taken. If you do not have this information readily available, you can try the following:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork — the tow company should be listed there.
• Call the Sampson County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line.
• Reference your booking number when calling, if available.

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 (or a licensed person picking it up for you).
• Vehicle registration or title.
• Proof of insurance.
• Payment for 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 yourself. In this case, you have a couple of options:

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

Costs & Fees in Sampson County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly. While there is no specific impound lot data available for Sampson County, typical towing fees in North Carolina generally range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees usually range from $25 to $50 per day. These fees can vary by impound lot, so it is important to call ahead and confirm the exact costs before you go.

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. Martin Edwards & Associates is a regional state-contracted facility that may be where your car is impounded.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm which payment methods they accept. Some impound lots accept cash, credit cards, and money orders, while others may only accept cash.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the total cost of retrieving your vehicle.

After 30 Days

In North Carolina, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period, the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This timeline is generally around 30 days, but it can vary. To avoid this, it is essential to act quickly and retrieve your vehicle as soon as possible. In Sampson County, vehicles seized under North Carolina General Statute 20-28.3 that are ultimately forfeited (or sold via expedited pretrial sale because accumulating storage fees exceed 85% of the vehicle's fair market value) result in auction proceeds being distributed directly to the local county school boards.

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 to help cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available. Some impound lots may offer payment plans or other arrangements to help you manage the expenses.
• Consult with an attorney. In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate or challenge the fees.

After Retrieval

Once you have paid the fees and retrieved your vehicle, take the following precautions:

• Inspect the vehicle thoroughly before leaving the lot.
• Document any damage with photographs or video.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away.

Failing to document damage before leaving the lot can make it difficult to pursue a claim later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I get my belongings out of the car before I have the money to pay the impound fees? A: You can usually retrieve personal belongings from the vehicle with permission from the impound lot. Contact them to arrange a time, and bring your driver's license and vehicle registration if possible.

Q: What happens if I just abandon the vehicle at the impound lot? A: The impound lot can sell the vehicle at auction to cover the fees. You may still be responsible for any remaining balance if the sale price doesn't cover the full amount.

Q: How long do I have to request an Administrative Hearing with the DMV? A: You typically have a limited time, often 10 days from the date of the incident, to request an administrative hearing with the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) to challenge your license suspension. Missing this deadline can result in the automatic suspension of your license.