Logan County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Logan

Being arrested for a DUI in Logan, Ohio, is stressful enough. On top of that, you're likely dealing with the added headache of getting your vehicle back from the impound lot. This guide provides immediate, practical information on how to retrieve your car as quickly and efficiently as possible, helping you minimize fees and navigate the process.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI (driving under the influence) in Ohio, your vehicle is often impounded. This is standard procedure for a few reasons:

• Public Safety: Removing impaired drivers from the road is paramount.
• Evidence: The vehicle itself may be considered evidence in your case.
• Liability: Authorities want to avoid liability for leaving a vehicle unattended.

Understanding why your car was impounded is the first step in understanding how to get it back.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding your vehicle is crucial. It's likely at an official impound lot, but knowing which one is key to a smooth retrieval process.

Official Impound Lots in Logan

[Note: Since there is no impound lot data available, this section will provide general guidance. Once data is available, it should be updated with specific addresses, phone numbers, and hours.]

Unfortunately, we don't have a specific list of impound lots operating in Logan at this time. We are actively working on compiling this information.

How to Find Your Vehicle

The fastest way to locate your car is to contact the local law enforcement agency that arrested you:

• Call Logan Police/Sheriff:
• Reference your case number: When you call, provide the case number assigned to your DUI arrest. This will help them quickly locate your vehicle's impound location.
• Most vehicles towed within 24 hours of arrest: The towing company typically moves vehicles to the impound lot within 24 hours of the arrest.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Gathering the necessary documents beforehand will save you time and potential frustration at the impound lot.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or someone with valid license): The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration: Proof that the vehicle is registered.
• Proof of insurance: Current insurance policy for the vehicle.
• Cash or credit card for fees: Impound lots typically accept cash or credit cards. Call ahead to confirm accepted payment methods.

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'll need someone else to do it for you.

• Have someone else pick it up: A friend or family member with a valid license can retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license.
• Written authorization from you allowing them to pick up the vehicle. A simple, dated, and signed note will usually suffice.
• Vehicle title or registration proving ownership (or a copy).

Costs & Fees in Logan

Impound fees can add up quickly, so understanding the cost structure is vital.

Typical Fees

[Note: Since there is no impound lot data available, this section will provide estimated ranges. Once data is available, it should be updated with specific amounts and payment methods.]

• Towing fee: $150 - $300 (depending on distance and vehicle size)
• Daily storage: $20 - $50 per day (this accumulates quickly!)
• Administrative fees: $25 - $75
• Release fee: $50 - $100

IMPORTANT: Fees accumulate daily. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes. Act quickly to minimize these costs.

Payment Methods

[Note: Once impound lot data is available, include specific payment methods accepted by each lot. For example: "Cash, Visa, Mastercard accepted at [Impound Lot Name]"]

We are currently gathering information on specific payment methods accepted by impound lots in Logan. Call the impound lot directly to confirm their accepted payment methods before you go.

Timeline

Understanding the timeline is essential to avoid losing your vehicle.

Within 24 Hours

Ideally, retrieve your car within 24 hours of it being impounded. This will prevent significant daily storage fees from accumulating.

After 30 Days

In Ohio, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This means they can sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding fees.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Facing unexpected impound fees can be a significant financial burden. Here are some options to consider:

Options

• Borrow from family/friends: This is often the quickest and easiest solution.
• Payment plans (some lots offer this): Inquire with the impound lot to see if they offer a payment plan. This allows you to pay off the fees over time.
• Sign vehicle over to impound lot (avoid debt but lose car): If you absolutely cannot afford the fees, you may be able to sign over ownership of the vehicle to the impound lot to avoid further debt. This means you will lose your car.

What NOT to Do

• Don't wait - fees add up fast: Procrastination will only increase the financial burden.
• Don't abandon the vehicle: Abandoning the vehicle can lead to further legal issues and penalties.

Special Situations

Certain circumstances can complicate the vehicle retrieval process.

If Your Car Was Evidence

If the police consider your car evidence in your DUI case, it may be held longer.

• May be held longer by police: The police will need to release the vehicle before you can retrieve it from the impound lot.
• Get release authorization first: Contact the police department or the prosecutor's office to obtain a release authorization form. Present this form to the impound lot.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

If the vehicle is registered in someone else's name, the registered owner has the right to retrieve it, regardless of your situation.

• Registered owner can retrieve regardless of your situation: The registered owner will need to provide proof of ownership (title or registration) and their valid driver's license.
• They'll need proof of ownership: The impound lot will verify their ownership.

After Retrieval

Once you have your vehicle back, take these important steps:

Check Your Vehicle

• Document any damage immediately: Carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Take photos: Take detailed photos of any damage as evidence.
• Report damage to impound lot manager: Immediately report any damage to the impound lot manager and document the report. This will help you file a claim if necessary.

Logan Impound Lot Locations

[Note: This section will be populated with detailed information, including addresses, phone numbers, hours of operation, and map references, as soon as impound lot data becomes available. We are actively researching this information for Logan, Ohio.]

We are currently compiling a list of impound lot locations in Logan. Please check back soon for updated information. In the meantime, contact the Logan Police Department or Logan County Sheriff's Office for assistance in locating your vehicle.

This guide is intended to provide general information and should not be considered legal advice. If you have been arrested for DUI in Logan, Ohio, it is essential to consult with an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible.