Hancock County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Hancock County

After a DUI arrest in Hancock County, Ohio, one of your immediate concerns is likely getting your vehicle back. Your car is typically impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons, including public safety and to prevent further illegal operation by an intoxicated driver. This guide provides the essential steps and information you need to navigate the vehicle retrieval process in Hancock County.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is determining where your vehicle was towed. The arresting officer should provide you with documentation indicating the name and location of the towing company. If you don't have this information readily available, you can take the following steps:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The paperwork provided by the arresting officer should list the name and contact information for the towing company that has your vehicle.
• Call the Hancock County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: You can contact the Hancock County Sheriff's Office at their non-emergency number to inquire about the location of your vehicle. Their contact information can be found on the Hancock County Sheriff's Office website.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number handy when contacting the Sheriff's Office can help them locate your information more quickly. You can find inmate information through the Hancock County Inmate Search.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your vehicle is impounded, gather the necessary documents and prepare for the associated costs.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You need to prove ownership of the vehicle. Bring either the registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: You must show proof of current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay the towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your driver's license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot personally retrieve the vehicle. In this case:

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

Costs & Fees in Hancock County

Towing and storage fees can vary, but here's a general idea of what to expect:

Typical towing fees in Ohio run $144 for the base rate, plus a $25 administrative fee. Daily storage fees are around $22 per day for standard vehicles under 10,000 lbs. Fees vary by lot, so call ahead to confirm before you go.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes to retrieve your vehicle.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Many facilities accept cash, and some accept credit cards. Be prepared to pay with cash in case the lot does not accept credit cards.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the total cost. There is also a potential issue with property stored by the Hancock County Justice Center. There is a strict policy regarding the release of an inmate's property to third parties: property will absolutely not be released after 72 hours of incarceration.

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. To avoid this, take action as soon as possible.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are struggling to afford the impound fees:

• Contact a family member or friend to help cover costs: See if someone can lend you the money needed to retrieve your vehicle.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, but this is not guaranteed.

After Retrieval

Once you retrieve your vehicle:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Check for any damage that may have occurred while the vehicle was in the impound lot's possession.
• Document any damage with photos: Take pictures 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 any damage in writing before you leave the premises. This will help you if you need to file a claim for damages.

Frequently Asked Questions

1Can I get my personal belongings out of the car before I retrieve it? If you need to retrieve personal items from the vehicle, like medication or keys, you may be able to do so. However, in Hancock County, the registered owner may retrieve property. If retrieved after hours, a $150 surcharge applies.

2What happens if I don't retrieve my vehicle? If you don't retrieve your vehicle from the impound lot, the lot can place a lien on the vehicle and eventually sell it to cover the outstanding towing and storage fees.

3Does Hancock County have a "Safe Surrender Day" that can help me if I have outstanding warrants related to my DUI? Yes, Hancock County participates in "Safe Surrender Day", a program that allows individuals with outstanding warrants, including those related to missed OVI court dates or fines, to address these issues without the threat of immediate arrest. Check with the Findlay Municipal Court for details on upcoming events.