Ashland County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Ashland County

After a DUI arrest in Ashland County, Ohio, one of your immediate concerns will likely be: what happens to my car? Vehicles are commonly impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons. It ensures the vehicle is not operated illegally while you are in custody, and it serves as a safety measure to prevent further incidents involving an impaired driver. Understanding the process for vehicle retrieval is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to help you navigate the process of getting your car back.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is determining where your vehicle was towed. Typically, law enforcement agencies contract with local towing companies to remove and store vehicles. In Ashland County, the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) executes the majority of OVI interdictions. The Ashland Police Department and the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office also handle such cases.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Here’s how to locate your impounded vehicle:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should provide documentation that includes the name and contact information of the towing company that has your vehicle. This is the quickest way to find out where your car is located.
• Call the Ashland County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot find the information on your paperwork, contact the Ashland County Sheriff's Office at 419-289-3911. Provide them with your name and date of arrest, and they should be able to tell you where your vehicle was towed.
• Reference your booking number: When you call, having your booking number from the Ashland County Jail can help the Sheriff's Office locate your information more efficiently. All individuals arrested within the county limits for OVI are transported to the Ashland County Jail, managed by the Corrections Division of the Ashland County Sheriff's Office.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your car is impounded, gather the necessary documents to retrieve it. Missing paperwork will delay the process and increase storage fees.

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 show current proof of insurance for the vehicle.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

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

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: Ask someone with a valid license to pick up the vehicle for you.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license
• A signed authorization letter from you, granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle on your behalf
• The vehicle title or registration in your name

Costs & Fees in Ashland County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the costs is important.

Typical towing fees in Ohio generally range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees typically range from $25 to $50 per day. These are just estimates; fees vary by impound lot.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily, starting the moment your vehicle is towed. The sooner you retrieve your car, 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, but not all.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Time is of the essence. Storage fees accumulate every day, increasing the total cost.

After 30 Days

In Ohio, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period (often 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover the unpaid fees. Do everything possible to retrieve your vehicle before this happens.

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 financial assistance to help cover 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. This is not a standard practice, but it's worth asking.

After Retrieval

Before leaving the impound lot with your vehicle:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Check for any damage that may have occurred while the vehicle was in their care.
• Document any damage with photos: Take photos of any dents, scratches, or other damage.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Notify the impound lot manager of the damage in writing before you leave the premises. This creates a record of your claim and protects your rights.

Retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Ashland County requires prompt action and careful attention to detail. By following these steps, you can navigate the process efficiently and minimize unnecessary expenses. If you need assistance with bail, browse licensed bail bondsmen serving Ashland County in our bail bond directory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where will I be taken after being arrested for OVI in Ashland County? A: All individuals arrested for OVI in Ashland County are transported to the Ashland County Jail, located at 1205 East Main Street, Ashland, OH 44805.

Q: What happens if I can't pick up my car from the impound lot right away in Ashland County? A: Storage fees accrue daily. Contact the impound lot immediately to understand their fee structure and payment options. Every day of delay will increase the total cost.

Q: Who should I contact if I have questions about why my car was impounded after my OVI arrest in Ashland County? A: Contact the Ashland County Sheriff's Office at 419-289-3911. They can provide information about the impound and the arresting agency's policies.