Carroll County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Carroll County

Following a DUI arrest in Carroll County, Ohio, one of the most immediate concerns is retrieving your vehicle. Vehicles are commonly impounded after a DUI arrest for several reasons: as evidence in the case, to prevent further operation by an impaired driver, or because Ohio law requires it. Understanding the process and acting quickly is crucial to minimize storage fees and avoid further complications.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is locating your vehicle. The arresting officer should have informed you where your vehicle was towed. If you don't have that information readily available, here's how to find it:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The name and contact information for the towing company used should be listed on the paperwork provided by the arresting officer.
• Call the Carroll County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: You can contact the Carroll County Sheriff's Office at 330-627-2170 to inquire about the location of your vehicle. Be prepared to provide your name, date of birth, and date of arrest.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number from the Carroll County Jail can help the Sheriff's Office locate the vehicle information more quickly.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, gather the necessary documents to claim it. The impound lot will require specific documentation to verify ownership and authorization for release.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license. If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you'll need someone else with a valid license to pick it up.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must provide proof of ownership, such as the vehicle's registration or title.
• Proof of insurance: Current proof of insurance for the vehicle is required.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your driver's license is suspended, you can still retrieve your vehicle by having a licensed driver act on your behalf. They will need the following:

• Their valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid license.
• A signed authorization letter from you: A letter authorizing them to pick up the vehicle on your behalf. The letter should include your name, address, date of birth, a description of the vehicle (make, model, and license plate number), and a statement authorizing the named individual to retrieve the vehicle.
• Vehicle title or registration: Proof of your ownership of the vehicle.

According to the research data, if the driver arrested for OVI is not the registered owner of the vehicle, the arresting agency will issue a written notice to the actual registered owner informing them of the impoundment. The registered owner must present the title or registration in their name to secure release.

Costs & Fees in Carroll County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the potential costs is essential. While specific rates vary by towing company, here are some general guidelines:

Typical towing fees in Ohio range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees are usually between $25 and $50 per day. Contact the specific impound lot holding your vehicle to confirm their exact rates before you go.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily. The longer your vehicle remains at the impound lot, the more expensive it will be to retrieve it.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm which payment methods they accept. Most accept cash, and some may also accept credit cards or money orders. Be prepared to pay the full amount due before the vehicle will be released.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when retrieving your vehicle.

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases 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 outstanding fees. This means they can legally sell your vehicle to cover the costs. Do everything possible to retrieve your vehicle before it reaches this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

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

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask if they can help you cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot about a payment plan: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, allowing you to pay the fees in installments.

After Retrieval

Before driving your vehicle away from the impound lot, take these precautions:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take photos of any dents, scratches, or other damage you find.
• 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 will help protect your rights if you need to file a claim for damages later.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I get my personal belongings out of the car before retrieving it? You can typically arrange a time with the impound lot to retrieve essential personal belongings from the vehicle, such as medications or work tools, even if you can't yet afford to retrieve the entire vehicle. Contact the impound lot to make arrangements.
• What happens if I don't retrieve my car? After a certain period (usually around 30 days), the impound lot can sell your vehicle at auction to cover the towing and storage fees. You will lose ownership of the vehicle.
• Can I get a reduced fee if I can prove financial hardship? While not guaranteed, it's worth asking the impound lot manager if they offer any discounts or payment arrangements for individuals facing financial hardship. Provide documentation of your financial situation if possible.