Knox County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Knox County

After a DUI arrest in Knox County, Ohio, one of the first things you'll need to address 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 legal requirements outlined in Ohio Revised Code (ORC) statutes. Understanding the process and acting quickly is crucial to minimize storage fees and avoid further complications.

Where Is Your Car?

Your vehicle is likely being held at the Mount Vernon Police Department Impound Facility.

• Mount Vernon Police Department Impound Facility
• Address: 500 N. Elm Street, Mount Vernon, Ohio 43050
• Phone: N/A
• Daily Fee: $N/A

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating where your vehicle was towed. Look for the name of the towing company or impound lot on these documents.
• Call the Knox County Sheriff's Office: If you're unsure where your vehicle was taken, contact the Knox County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line at (740) 392-5245. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and the date of your arrest.
• Reference your booking number: When contacting the Sheriff's Office or the impound lot, having your booking number will help them locate your vehicle more quickly.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

To retrieve your vehicle from the Mount Vernon Police Department Impound Facility, you will generally need the following:

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must provide proof of ownership. This can be either the vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: You'll need to show proof 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 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, granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle.
• The vehicle title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Knox County

Towing and storage fees can accumulate quickly. The Mount Vernon Police Department Impound Facility charges a daily storage fee of $N/A.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize expenses. The MVPD’s strict 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (M-F) release window means weekend arrests can be particularly costly, effectively mandating extra impound fees.

Payment

Call the Mount Vernon Police Department Impound Facility in advance to confirm their accepted methods of payment. It's best to clarify whether they accept cash, credit cards, money orders, or a combination.

Timeline

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 of retrieval. Pre-emptive impound retrieval is crucial, especially if the arrest occurs on a weekday. Secure vehicle release before the 4:00 PM cutoff to avoid a multi-day storage bill.

After Ten Days

Under Ohio law, if an OVI arrest occurs on a public roadway, the vehicle is typically removed under the authority of ORC 4513.61. The law enforcement agency must search records within five business days to ascertain the owner and any lienholder. Notice must be sent to the owner’s last known address, informing them that the vehicle will be declared a nuisance if not claimed within ten days. Defendants who remain incarcerated or in inpatient treatment for longer than ten days risk having their vehicle processed for disposal, complicating asset recovery.

After 30 Days

In many jurisdictions, after approximately 30 days, the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover unpaid storage fees. This means they can legally sell your vehicle. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

The costs associated with retrieving a vehicle after a DUI arrest can be substantial. If you're struggling to afford the fees:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask if they can help cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, but this is not guaranteed.

After Retrieval

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: 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.
• 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.

Navigating the impound process can be challenging. Acting quickly and understanding your rights are essential to minimizing costs and reclaiming your vehicle as soon as possible. If you need assistance with your DUI case, browse licensed bail bondsmen serving Knox County in our bail bond directory.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What happens if I don't retrieve my vehicle from the Mount Vernon Police Department Impound Facility? If you don't retrieve your vehicle and storage fees remain unpaid, the impound lot can eventually sell your vehicle to recover those costs.
2. Can someone else pick up my car for me if I'm still in jail? Yes, someone else can pick up your car for you. They will need a valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you, and the vehicle's registration or title.
3. Is there any way to get the impound fees waived in Knox County? While it is rare, consulting with a DUI attorney might reveal options for negotiating or challenging fees, especially if there are extenuating circumstances.