Franklin County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Franklin County

Following a DUI arrest in Franklin County, Ohio, one of your immediate concerns is likely the status of your vehicle. Vehicles are commonly impounded after a DUI arrest for several reasons, including public safety and to prevent further operation by an impaired driver. Understanding the impound process and how to retrieve your vehicle can save you significant time and money. This guide provides the steps and information you need to recover your vehicle as quickly as possible.

Where Is Your Car?

Your vehicle will be taken to a designated impound lot after a DUI arrest. Here are some locations your vehicle might be:

• Columbus Police Impound Lot: 2700 Impound Lot Road, Columbus, Ohio 43207
• CampusParc Tow Lot: Corner of Kenny Road and Woody Hayes Drive

How to Find Your Vehicle

Here are a few ways to determine where your vehicle was taken:

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating the towing company and impound location.
• Call the Franklin County Sheriff's Office: Contact the Franklin County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line for assistance in locating your vehicle.
• Reference Your Booking Number: Have your booking number ready when making inquiries, as this will help them locate your information more efficiently.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Gathering the necessary documents and preparing for the associated costs are essential for a smooth vehicle retrieval process.

Required Documents

Generally, you will need the following documents to retrieve your vehicle from the impound lot:

• Valid Driver's License: If you are the registered owner and intend to drive the vehicle, you must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle Registration or Title: Proof of ownership is required. Bring the vehicle's registration or 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 can still retrieve your vehicle, but you will need someone with a valid license to drive it off the lot.

• Have a Licensed Friend or Family Member Retrieve It: Designate a licensed driver to retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.
• They Need:
• Their valid driver's license.
• A signed authorization letter from you (a notarized "Authorization of Release" form may be required, especially if you are incarcerated).
• The vehicle title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Franklin County

Understanding the costs associated with vehicle impoundment is crucial, as storage fees accrue daily.

The Columbus Police Impound Lot charges a storage fee of $30.00 per day. Franklin County and the City of Columbus are authorized to levy an administrative fee related to the processing of the impoundment. This fee is typically $30.00 to $125.00 depending on the specific ordinance applied.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day, including weekends and holidays. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize expenses.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Most lots accept cash and credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover). Note that the cardholder must be present with ID when paying with a credit card. Payments are NOT accepted over the phone.

Timeline

Prompt action is essential to minimize storage fees and prevent further complications.

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day your vehicle remains at the impound lot increases the total cost.

After 30 Days

In many jurisdictions, including Ohio, the impound lot can initiate a lien sale if the vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period, often around 30 days. This means they can sell your vehicle to recover the outstanding fees. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are struggling to afford the impound fees, consider the following options:

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Seek assistance from loved ones to help cover the costs.
• Ask About Payment Plans: Inquire with the impound lot about the availability of payment plans or installment options. Some lots may offer flexible payment arrangements.

After Retrieval

Once you have retrieved your vehicle, take the following precautions:

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately: Before leaving the lot, thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document Any Damage: Take photos or videos of any damage as evidence.
• Report Any Damage: Immediately report any damage to the lot manager in writing before driving away. Obtain a copy of the report for your records.

By understanding the vehicle impound process and acting promptly, you can navigate this challenging situation and retrieve your vehicle efficiently. Browse licensed bail bondsmen serving Franklin County in our bail bond directory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where do I go to retrieve my vehicle if it was impounded by CampusParc? A: Vehicles impounded by CampusParc are located at the corner of Kenny Road and Woody Hayes Drive.

Q: What happens if I can't pick up my vehicle myself because I am still incarcerated? A: You will need to complete a "Authorization of Release" form, have it notarized, and give it to the person you are authorizing to pick up the vehicle.

Q: What courtroom do I go to for my arraignment if I have already bonded out of jail? A: If you have bonded out, you should go to Courtroom 4C at 375 South High Street for your arraignment, which is held Monday through Friday at 9:00 AM. Doors open at 8:30 AM.

Sources

• Corrections - Franklin County Sheriff's Office
• Inmate Information - Franklin County Sheriff's Office
• Bond Information - Welcome to the Franklin County Regional Jail
• Frequently Asked Questions - Franklin County Sheriff's Office
• Columbus Police Impound Lot
• Motor Vehicle Impound Information - Grandview Heights
• Towing Fee Limits