Harrison County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Harrison County

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

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is locating your vehicle. The arresting officer should have informed you where your car was towed. This information is typically included on the paperwork you received at the time of your arrest. If you don't have that information readily available, there are a few ways to find out.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork — The name and contact information for the towing company used by the Harrison County Sheriff's Office should be listed on the documents provided to you at the time of your arrest.
• Call the Harrison County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line — The Harrison County Sheriff's Office can be reached at (740) 942-2197. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and the date of your arrest, and they should be able to provide the location of your vehicle.
• Reference your booking number — Having your booking number ready when you call can help expedite the process.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, you'll need to gather the necessary documents to retrieve it. Impound lots have strict requirements to prevent unauthorized release.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or a licensed person picking it up for you)
• Vehicle registration or title
• Proof of insurance
• Payment for 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. In this case, you have two options:

• 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, and the vehicle's title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Harrison County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the potential costs is essential. Since Harrison County uses private towing companies, rates can vary.

Typical towing fees in Ohio generally range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees are usually between $25 and $75 per day. Contact the specific impound lot holding your vehicle to confirm their exact rates and accepted forms of payment.

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

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Most accept cash, and some may take credit cards or money orders. Don't assume they take a certain type of payment – verify beforehand.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when it comes to vehicle impoundment.

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accumulating as soon as your vehicle arrives at the impound lot. Every day that passes increases the total cost. Contact the towing company as soon as possible to arrange retrieval.

After 30 Days

In Ohio, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period, the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. While the exact timeframe can vary, it's generally around 30 days. Do not allow the situation to reach this point, as you risk losing your vehicle permanently.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're facing financial hardship and struggling to pay the impound fees, consider these options:

• Contact a family member or friend to help cover costs
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available — Some impound lots may offer payment arrangements, but this is not guaranteed. It's always worth asking.

After Retrieval

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

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot — Check for any new damage that may have occurred while the vehicle was in their custody.
• Document any damage with photos — Take clear pictures of any scratches, dents, or other damage you find.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away — Obtain a signed copy of the report for your records. This documentation is crucial if you need to file a claim for damages.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I get my personal belongings out of the car before I pay the impound fees? You may be able to retrieve essential personal items. Contact the impound lot to ask about their policy.
• What happens if I just abandon my car at the impound lot? The impound lot will eventually sell the vehicle at auction to cover the fees. Abandoning the car does not absolve you of responsibility.
• Where is the Harrison County Court located? The Harrison County Court is located at 100 West Market St, Dept. 105, Cadiz, Ohio 43907-1132.