Scotland County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Scotland County

Being arrested for DUI in Scotland County, North Carolina, is a stressful experience. Beyond the legal ramifications, there's the immediate issue of your vehicle. In most DUI cases, your car will be impounded, meaning it's towed and stored at a local impound lot. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to locating, retrieving, and handling the associated costs of getting your vehicle back.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you are arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Scotland County, law enforcement typically impounds your vehicle for several reasons:

• Safety: To prevent you from driving under the influence again immediately.
• Liability: The arresting agency doesn't want to be responsible for a vehicle left unattended on the roadside.
• Policy: The Scotland County Sheriff's Office and other law enforcement agencies utilize a rotation wrecker system for impoundments.

Following your arrest, the vehicle is towed to a designated impound lot. The fees for towing and storage begin accruing immediately, making it crucial to act fast.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding your vehicle is the first critical step. Law enforcement in Scotland County uses a "Rotation Wrecker" system, where approved towing companies are called on a rotating basis when a vehicle needs to be impounded. Here's how to find out where your car was taken:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should provide documentation that includes the name and contact information of the towing company that impounded your vehicle. This is the fastest way to find out where it is located.
• Call the Scotland County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot locate the paperwork, contact the Scotland County Sheriff's Office. Explain that you were arrested for DUI and need to know where your vehicle was towed.
• Reference your booking number: When you call, having your booking number from the Scotland County Detention Center will help them locate the information more quickly. The Scotland County Sheriff’s Office phone number is (910) 277-3166.

Once you have the name and contact information of the towing company, call them immediately to confirm they have your vehicle and to inquire about their specific requirements and fees for release.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, gather all the necessary documents to ensure a smooth retrieval process.

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 either the vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: You must demonstrate that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay the towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot retrieve the vehicle yourself. Here's what to do:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A licensed individual 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.
• The vehicle title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Scotland County

The costs associated with retrieving your vehicle can be substantial, so it's important to be prepared.

Typical towing fees in North Carolina range from $175 to $250. Daily storage fees typically cost $40 to $60 per day. However, these amounts can vary depending on the specific towing company and any additional services required. Call the impound lot directly to confirm their exact fees before you go.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate daily, so the longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize these costs.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Most accept cash, but policies on credit cards and money orders vary. Being prepared with the correct form of payment will expedite the retrieval process.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the total amount you'll owe. Prioritize retrieving your vehicle as soon as possible.

After 30 Days

In North Carolina, if a vehicle remains unclaimed at an impound lot for an extended period (typically 30 days), the lot has the right to initiate a lien sale to recover their fees. This means they can sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding costs. Do everything possible to prevent your vehicle from reaching this stage.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

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

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance in covering 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. It's worth inquiring about this possibility.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: A DUI attorney in Scotland County may be able to negotiate with the towing company or challenge the fees in certain circumstances.

After Retrieval

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

• 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 clear photos of any scratches, dents, or other damage.
• 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 creates a record of the damage and can be helpful if you need to file a claim later.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

**2. What happens if I can't afford to get my car out of impound in Scotland County?*Contact the impound lot to ask about payment plans. You can also seek assistance from family or friends, or consult with a DUI attorney about potential options. If the vehicle is not claimed, the impound lot may eventually sell it to cover the fees.

**3. Where is the Scotland County Detention Center located?*The Scotland County Detention Center is located at 212 Biggs Street, Laurinburg, NC 28352.