Montgomery County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Montgomery County

Following a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) arrest in Montgomery County, Ohio, one of your immediate concerns is likely retrieving your vehicle. Vehicles are commonly impounded after a DUI arrest for several reasons: as evidence, for public safety (preventing further impaired driving), or due to the driver's license suspension. Understanding the impound and retrieval process can save you time, money, and further legal complications. The logistical pathway following an arrest for Operating a Vehicle while Impaired (OVI) in Montgomery County involves local law enforcement impound protocols.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is determining where your vehicle was towed. The arresting officer should provide this information, but it's essential to confirm.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The name and contact information for the towing company should be listed on the paperwork provided by the arresting officer.
• Call the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot locate the paperwork, call the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office at their non-emergency number to inquire about the location of your vehicle.
• Reference your booking number: Have your booking number ready when you call, as this will help them locate your vehicle information more quickly. The Montgomery County Jail is located at 345 W. Second Street, Dayton, OH 45422.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, gather all necessary documents to avoid delays.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You will need a valid driver's license to retrieve the vehicle, unless someone else is picking it up for you.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is required, so bring either the vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: Current proof of insurance for the vehicle is mandatory.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all towing and storage 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:

• 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 Montgomery County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the cost structure is crucial. Keep in mind that Montgomery County relies heavily on a "two-stop" impound release process, particularly within the City of Dayton, which introduces temporal and financial friction.

Typical towing fees in Ohio range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees typically range from $25 to $50 per day. These fees vary by impound lot, so it's important to call ahead to confirm the exact amounts before you go.

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

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm what forms of payment they accept. Most accept cash and major credit cards, but some may also accept money orders or certified checks. Personal checks are typically not accepted.

Also, be aware of the Bail Surcharge Trap: the State of Ohio House Bill 1 Bail Surcharge requires an additional fee to be levied on top of the established bond amount. This surcharge can be as much as $85.00 and must be paid in full at the exact time the bond is posted at the jail window.

Timeline

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

Act Immediately

Begin the retrieval process as soon as possible. Storage fees start accumulating immediately.

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 their costs. Do everything possible to retrieve your vehicle before it reaches this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider these options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance in covering the costs.
• Ask the impound lot about payment plans: Some impound lots may offer payment plans to help you manage the expense.

If You Believe the Tow Was Improper

If a defendant believes the vehicle was improperly impounded, RCGO §76.12 provides a mechanism to contest the tow. The owner has a strict deadline of 25 calendar days from the date of the tow to file a written request for a hearing with the Dayton Police Department. To secure this hearing, the owner must post a $50.00 bond upfront. Failure to file within this timeframe constitutes an absolute waiver of the right to contest the impoundment.

After Retrieval

Before leaving the impound lot with your vehicle:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while in impound.
• Document any damage with photos: Take photos of any damage as evidence.
• 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 creates a record of the damage and can help with any potential claims.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where is the Montgomery County Jail located? A: The Montgomery County Jail is located at 345 W. Second Street, Dayton, OH 45422.

Q: How long do I have to contest a tow in Dayton? A: You have 25 calendar days from the date of the tow to file a written request for a hearing with the Dayton Police Department, along with a $50 bond.

Q: Where can I pay bail in Montgomery County? A: Bail payments can be made at the Inmate's Property Room Window located in the Jail Lobby, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.