Clark County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Clark County

After a DUI arrest in Clark County, Ohio, one of the most immediate concerns is retrieving your vehicle. Vehicles are typically impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons: as evidence, for public safety (to prevent further impaired driving), or due to the driver's license suspension. Understanding the process for getting your car back is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further legal complications.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is locating your impounded vehicle. The Springfield Police Division utilizes a decentralized, six-company dispatch rotation for non-preference tows. This means your car could be at any one of several different lots, so you need to find out which one.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating which towing company took possession of your vehicle. This is the quickest way to find out where your car is located.
• Call the Clark County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot locate the paperwork, contact the Clark County Sheriff's Office. They can help you determine where your vehicle was towed. Refer to your booking number when calling.
• Reference your booking number: Have your booking number ready when contacting the Sheriff's Office or the jail. This will allow them to quickly locate your records and provide the necessary information. The Clark County Jail's phone number is (937) 521-2080.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, you'll need specific documents and payment to retrieve it. Contact the specific impound lot in advance to confirm their exact requirements.

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 required. 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 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 cannot legally drive the vehicle yourself. You have a few options:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A licensed driver can pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• They need: To do so, they will need their valid driver’s license, a signed authorization letter from you granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle, and the vehicle's title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Clark County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the cost structure is essential.

Typical towing fees in Ohio range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees typically range from $25 to $50 per day. However, these fees can vary depending on the specific towing company and the services provided. Call the impound lot ahead of time to confirm their exact fee schedule.

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 determine which forms of payment they accept. Most accept cash, and some 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 it comes to retrieving your vehicle.

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accumulating as soon as your vehicle is towed. Contact the appropriate agency or towing company immediately following your release to determine the location of your vehicle and the steps required for retrieval.

After 30 Days

In Ohio, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot may have the right to initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This means they can sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding towing and storage fees. Contact the impound lot well before this timeframe to make arrangements.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are unable to 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 to help you manage the expenses.

After Retrieval

Before leaving the impound lot with your vehicle:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any signs of damage that may have occurred while it was in the impound lot's possession.
• Document any damage with photos: Take photos or videos of any 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to get my car out of impound in Clark County? A: While there isn't a strict deadline, storage fees accrue daily, and after approximately 30 days, the impound lot can initiate a lien sale. It's best to retrieve your vehicle as soon as possible.

Q: Can someone else pick up my car for me if I'm in jail in Clark County? A: Yes, a licensed driver can pick up your car with a signed authorization letter from you and the vehicle's title or registration.

Q: What happens if I can't afford to get my car out of impound in Springfield? A: Contact family or friends for assistance, inquire about payment plans with the impound lot, and consult with a DUI attorney.