Lake County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Lake County

After a DUI arrest in Lake County, Ohio, one of your immediate concerns is likely getting your vehicle back. Vehicles are typically impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons, including public safety and to prevent further operation of the vehicle by the impaired driver. Understanding the process for retrieving your vehicle and the associated costs is crucial.

Where Is Your Car?

Your vehicle was likely towed to one of several impound lots contracted by law enforcement agencies in Lake County. Here are a few possibilities:

• County Impound Lot: Located at 7 Richmond St., P.O. Box 601, Painesville, OH 44077.
• Bob's Garage: Located at 1735 Mentor Ave (Painesville).
• Vitalone's Towing Service: Located at the corner of Elm St. and Erie St. (Behind Willoughby Municipal Court). The administrative office is located at 38250 Mentor Ave, Willoughby, OH 44094. Contact them at (440) 946-9274.
• 3S Towing: Located at 29090 Anderson, Wickliffe, OH. Contact them at (440) 347-9560.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating which towing company impounded your vehicle.
• Call the Lake County Sheriff's Office: Contact them to inquire about the location of your vehicle.
• Reference Your Booking Number: Having your booking number from the Lake County Adult Detention Facility (LCADF) can help them locate your vehicle information more quickly. The LCADF is located at 104 East Erie Street, Painesville, Ohio 44077. The Booking/Main Phone is (440) 350-5601.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Lake County jurisdictions typically follow a "two-step" release process. You cannot go directly to the tow yard. You must first obtain a release form from the arresting Police Department or Court Clerk.

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License: If your license is suspended, see the section below.
• Vehicle Registration or Title: Proof of ownership is essential.
• Proof of Insurance: Ensure you have current insurance documentation for the vehicle.
• Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay all 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 legally drive the vehicle yourself.

• Have a Licensed Friend or Family Member Retrieve It: The easiest solution is to have a licensed driver pick up the vehicle for you.
• They Need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you (the registered owner), and the vehicle's title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Lake County

Towing and storage fees can accumulate quickly. It's important to understand the potential costs involved.

• Wickliffe (3S Towing): $90.00 tow / $15 per day storage / $25 per day indoor (motorcycle).
• Willoughby (Vitalone's): Variable tow fee, approximately $20.00/day storage.
• Mentor Muni Court: Immobilization Fee: $100.00. Call to verify fees.
• Painesville (Bob's Garage): Variable tow fee, $100.00 storage. Call to verify fees.

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

Payment

Contact the specific impound lot before heading there to confirm their accepted payment methods. Vitalone's and 3S Towing operate on a CASH ONLY basis. Mentor Municipal Court accepts payments at the Clerk's Discretion.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day costs more money. Willoughby Codified Ordinance 405.02 states that storage charges apply for "each day or fraction in excess of twenty-four hours." However, "There shall be no storage charge for any vehicle retrieved within the first four hours of storage".

The "two-step" release process in Lake County can create a "timing gap." If you are released from jail late in the afternoon, you may not be able to obtain the release paperwork from the police or court clerk before they close. This means your vehicle will remain in storage accruing fees over the weekend.

After 30 Days

Most states, including Ohio, allow the impound lot to initiate a lien sale if the vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period (typically 30 days). Do not let it reach this point, or you risk losing your vehicle permanently.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Financial constraints can make retrieving your vehicle challenging.

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Ask for assistance in covering the towing and storage costs.
• Ask the Impound Lot About a Payment Plan: Some impound lots may offer payment arrangements, but this is not guaranteed.

After Retrieval

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately: Before leaving the impound lot, carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while in their custody.
• Document Any Damage: Take photos and videos of any scratches, dents, or other damage.
• Report Any Damage: Immediately report any damage to the impound lot manager in writing before you drive away. This creates a record of your claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where is the Lake County Adult Detention Facility (LCADF) located? A: The LCADF is located at 104 East Erie Street, Painesville, Ohio 44077.

Q: Does Vitalone's Towing accept credit cards? A: No. Vitalone's Towing operates on a CASH ONLY basis.

Q: Where can I search for my case online in Lake County? A: You can search for your case online at https://benchmark.willoughbycourt.com/Home.aspx/Search.