Preble County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Preble County

Following a DUI arrest in Preble County, Ohio, one of the most pressing concerns is retrieving your vehicle. Under Ohio Revised Code (ORC) Sections 4513.60 and 4513.61, law enforcement has the authority to impound vehicles after a DUI arrest. This guide provides the essential steps and information to help you navigate the process of getting your car back, minimizing storage fees, and understanding your rights. The I-70/US-127 interchange in Preble County sees frequent accidents, leading to increased OVI arrests as traffic is diverted and patrolled.

Where Is Your Car?

Several towing companies may be used by law enforcement in Preble County. Here are some potential locations where your vehicle might be impounded:

• Englewood Truck Towing & Recovery (Eaton Division): Eaton, OH. Call (888) 513-1000 or (937) 836-5109.
• Red Baron Towing (New Lebanon Body, Frame & Tech Inc.): 1687 W Main St, New Lebanon, OH 45345. Phone: (937) 687-1318.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating the towing company and impound lot where your vehicle was taken.
• Call the Preble County Sheriff's Office: Contact their non-emergency line to inquire about the location of your vehicle. You can find contact information at the Preble County Sheriff's Office.
• Reference your booking number: Have your booking number ready when contacting the Sheriff's Office or towing companies, as this will help them locate your vehicle more efficiently.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Retrieving your vehicle requires specific documentation and adherence to the impound lot's procedures.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, see the section below.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is essential.
• Proof of insurance: You must demonstrate that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Official Agency Release Form: The arresting agency's administrative records division must provide this document.
• 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 Ohio's Administrative License Suspension (ALS), 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 with 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 Preble County

Understanding the costs involved is crucial for planning your vehicle retrieval. Storage fees begin accruing the moment your vehicle is towed.

• Daily Storage Rate: CONFIRMED UNAVAILABLE (Subject to Ohio "Reasonable Cost" standard).
• Tow Fee: CONFIRMED UNAVAILABLE (Subject to Ohio statutory limits).

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate daily. Contact the impound lot immediately to determine the exact fees and arrange for retrieval as soon as possible. Mitigating compounding storage fees must be the immediate financial priority following an arrest.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Most accept cash, certified checks, and major credit cards, but it's best to verify their specific policies.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day costs more money. The Administrative Delay / Weekend Trap: If an arrest occurs at 2:00 AM on a Saturday, the arresting agency's administrative records division may not be staffed to process the required official release form until Monday morning. Meanwhile, the private towing company is legally authorized to assess daily storage fees for Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.

After 30 Days

Most states allow the lot to initiate a lien sale if the vehicle is unclaimed after a certain period (often 30 days). Do not let it reach this point, as you risk losing your vehicle entirely.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Retrieving your vehicle can be financially challenging. Here are a few options if you're struggling to afford the fees:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance in covering the towing and storage costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans or partial payment options.

After Retrieval

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while in impound.
• Document any damage with photos: Take detailed photos of any scratches, dents, or other damage.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Obtain a signed acknowledgment of your report from the lot manager.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to appeal a tow in Preble County? A: CONFIRMED UNAVAILABLE (Governed by specific municipal ordinance and ORC 4513.60). File any appeal with the Eaton Municipal Court.

Q: Can I get my personal belongings out of my car before I retrieve it? A: Yes, you should be able to retrieve essential personal belongings. Contact the impound lot to arrange a time to collect these items. You will likely need to provide proof of ownership and identification.

Q: What happens if I don't pick up my car from the impound lot? A: If you fail to claim your vehicle, the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover the outstanding fees. You will lose ownership of the vehicle.