Wayne County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Wayne County

After a DUI arrest in Wayne County, North Carolina, one of your immediate concerns is likely getting your vehicle back. Vehicles are typically impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons: as evidence, to prevent further operation by an impaired driver, or because the driver was arrested and unable to legally operate the vehicle. Understanding the process and acting quickly is crucial to minimize storage fees and prevent further complications.

Where Is Your Car?

Unlike some larger cities, Wayne County utilizes a decentralized wrecker rotation system. This means your vehicle could be at any number of private towing lots within Goldsboro or within a 1.5-mile radius of the city limits. The arresting officer will rarely inform you of the specific towing company assigned to transport your vehicle at the time of the arrest.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Here's how to locate your impounded vehicle:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The name of the towing company that impounded your vehicle should be listed on the paperwork provided by the arresting officer.
• Call the Wayne County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot locate the paperwork, you can call the Wayne County Sheriff's Office to inquire.
• Reference your booking number: Have your booking number ready when you call, as this will help them locate your records more efficiently.

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: Either your valid license, or a valid license from the person picking up the vehicle. Note that your license may be suspended due to the DUI arrest.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is required.
• Proof of insurance: You must demonstrate that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Towing and storage fees must be paid before the vehicle is released.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot legally drive the vehicle off the lot yourself. You have a few options:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: Ask a friend or family member with a valid license to pick up the vehicle for you.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you (if you are the registered owner but cannot be present), and the vehicle's title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Wayne County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so it's essential to understand the potential costs.

Typical towing fees in North Carolina range from $100 to $200. Daily storage fees typically range from $20 to $40 per day. These are estimates, and the actual fees may vary depending on the specific towing company. Call ahead to confirm the exact fees before you go to avoid surprises.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily. The faster you retrieve your vehicle, the less you'll pay.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm which payment methods they accept. Most towing companies in North Carolina are required to accept debit cards, credit cards, and cash, but it's always best to verify beforehand. North Carolina law (N.C.G.S. § 20-219.25) states that if a company charges a credit card surcharge greater than two percent, the fee must reflect the actual, verifiable cost of processing the payment.

Timeline

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

Act Immediately

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

After 30 Days

In many states, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot has the right to initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider the following options:

• Contact a family member or friend to help cover costs: Borrowing money from someone you know can help you retrieve your vehicle quickly and avoid further fees.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, but this is not guaranteed.

After Retrieval

Before driving away with your vehicle, take the following precautions:

• 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 as evidence.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Notify the lot manager of any damage in writing and keep a copy of the report.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long after my DUI arrest in Wayne County do I have to get my car out of impound? A: While there's no set deadline, storage fees accrue daily. After about 30 days, the impound lot can begin the process of selling your vehicle to recoup costs.

Q: The Wayne County Sheriff's office towed my car, but I can't afford to get it out. What are my options? A: Consider borrowing money from family or friends, or contacting the impound lot to see if a payment plan is available. You can also consult with an attorney to explore your legal options.

Q: Can I get a hearing to contest the tow if I believe it was unlawful in Wayne County? A: Yes. Under N.C.G.S. § 20-219.10, you have the right to request a tow hearing through the local magistrate to determine the validity of the impoundment.