Richland County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Richland County

After a DUI arrest in Richland County, Ohio, one of your most immediate concerns will likely be retrieving your vehicle. Vehicles are typically impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons, including public safety and to prevent further impaired driving. Understanding the process and acting quickly is essential to minimize storage fees and avoid further complications.

Where Is Your Car?

Due to varying towing contracts between the Mansfield Police Department, the Richland County Sheriff's Office, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol, there isn't a single designated impound lot for all DUI arrests in Richland County. Law enforcement agencies utilize a rotational list of licensed local operators. Here are some of the operators known to handle law enforcement impounds:

• Zegers Fair Price Towing and Recovery: 1251 Harding Way East, 8655 OH-19, Galion, OH 44833. Phone: N/A
• Valley Towing LLC: 723 Springmill St, Mansfield, OH 44903. Phone: N/A

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating the name and contact information of the towing company that took your vehicle.
• Call the Richland County Sheriff's Office: Contact the non-emergency dispatch line for assistance in locating your vehicle.
• Reference your booking number: Providing your booking number can help the Sheriff's Office quickly locate your vehicle information.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Retrieving your vehicle requires specific documentation and payment. Be prepared to present the following:

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must possess a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is required. Bring either the vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: You must demonstrate that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Payment will be required for 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 individual can retrieve 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, and the vehicle title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Richland County

Understanding the costs associated with impoundment is crucial for budgeting and timely retrieval.

• Towing Fee: The maximum base fee for vehicles under 10,001 lbs is $144.00, as per Ohio Administrative Code.
• Daily Storage Rate: $N/A

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day your vehicle remains at the impound lot. These fees can quickly add up, so it's critical to retrieve your vehicle as soon as possible.

Payment

Call the specific impound lot where your vehicle is located in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Many facilities operate on a cash-only basis.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Each passing day increases the financial burden.

After 30 Days

In Ohio, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period (typically around 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. Do everything you can to prevent the situation from reaching this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Facing financial hardship after a DUI arrest is common. If you're struggling to afford the impound fees:

• Contact a family member or friend: Seek assistance from loved ones to help cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans to ease the financial strain.

After Retrieval

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any signs of damage that may have occurred while in impound.
• Document any damage with photos: Take detailed photographs of any damage you find.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Notify the impound lot manager of the damage in writing before removing the vehicle from the premises. This creates a record of your claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where will my car be towed after a DUI arrest in Richland County? Your car will be towed to one of several local towing operators used by the Mansfield Police Department, the Richland County Sheriff's Office, or the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Check your arrest paperwork or contact the arresting agency to confirm the location.
2. What form of payment does the Richland County Jail accept for bail? The Richland County Jail does not accept personal checks and requires exact cash for bail processing.
3. How long do I have to request an Administrative License Suspension (ALS) hearing with the Richland County BMV after a DUI arrest? You have 30 days to request an ALS hearing with the Richland County BMV (Driver Exam Station).