Wake County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Wake County

Being arrested for DUI in Wake County, NC, is a stressful situation, and one of the immediate concerns is often: what happens to my car? Vehicles are commonly impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons, including public safety, preventing further offenses, and as part of standard arrest procedures. Understanding how to retrieve your vehicle quickly and efficiently can save you significant money and further complications.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you are arrested for DUI, law enforcement will typically have your vehicle towed and stored at an impound lot. This ensures the vehicle is not left unattended on the roadside, potentially causing a hazard. It also prevents the possibility of someone driving the vehicle while impaired. The vehicle will remain impounded until you, or someone authorized by you, takes the necessary steps to retrieve it. The Wake County Sheriff's Office handles many of these impounds.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding out where your car has been towed is the first crucial step. The arresting officer should provide you with documentation that includes the name and contact information of the towing company. If you don't have this information readily available, you have a few options.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The most direct way to find out where your car is located is by reviewing the paperwork given to you by the arresting officer. The tow company's name and contact information should be clearly listed.
• Call the Wake County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can't locate the paperwork or the information is missing, contact the Wake County Sheriff's Office using their non-emergency number. They can assist you in locating your vehicle by referencing your name and date of arrest. You can find the non-emergency number on the Wake County Sheriff's Office website.
• Reference your booking number: When contacting the Sheriff's Office or a potential impound lot, providing your booking number can expedite the search process. This number is assigned to you during the booking process at the Wake County Detention Center.

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. Be prepared, as impound lots are strict about these requirements.

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.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must provide proof of ownership, either through the vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: Current proof of insurance for the vehicle is required.
• Payment for fees: You will need to pay all applicable towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you can still retrieve your vehicle by having a licensed individual do it for you. Here's what they'll need:

• Their valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid license.
• A signed authorization letter from you: A written and signed letter authorizing them to pick up the vehicle on your behalf. Be sure to include your name, their name, the vehicle's description (make, model, VIN), and the date.
• Vehicle title or registration: Proof of your ownership of the vehicle.

Costs & Fees in Wake County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the costs involved is crucial. While specific impound lot fees vary, here's a general idea of what to expect in North Carolina:

Typical towing fees in North Carolina range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees usually range from $25 to $50 per day.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily. The longer you wait, the more it will cost to get your car back. Contact the specific impound lot holding your vehicle to confirm their exact fee structure before heading over.

Payment

Impound lots typically accept cash, and many also accept credit cards or money orders. However, it's essential to call the impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods to avoid any surprises.

Timeline

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

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day your vehicle sits in the impound lot, the fees increase. The sooner you retrieve your vehicle, the less you'll have to pay.

After 30 Days

In North Carolina, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period (typically 30 days), the impound lot has the right to initiate a lien sale. This means they can sell your vehicle to recover the outstanding towing and storage fees. To avoid this, act promptly.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're facing financial difficulties and can't afford the towing and storage fees, consider the following:

• 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, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. It's worth inquiring about this option.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: In some cases, an attorney may be able to negotiate the fees or challenge their validity. A DUI attorney can advise you on your legal options.

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 photos of any damage you find as evidence.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Notify the impound lot manager of any damage in writing before leaving the premises. This creates a record of your claim and can be helpful if you need to pursue compensation for the damage.

By following these steps, you can navigate the process of retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Wake County, NC, minimizing costs and potential complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long do I have to retrieve my car before it's sold at auction in Wake County? Generally, after about 30 days of unpaid storage, the impound lot can begin the process of selling your vehicle to recoup their fees. Contact the specific lot to confirm their exact policy.
2. Can someone else pick up my car for me in Wake County if I'm still in jail? Yes, with a signed authorization letter, their valid driver's license, and proof of your ownership (vehicle title or registration).
3. Where in the Wake County Justice Center can I find information about my impounded vehicle? The Wake County Sheriff's Office, located within the Wake County Justice Center, can help locate your vehicle.