Ross County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Ross County

After a DUI arrest in Ross County, Ohio, one of your most immediate concerns is likely getting your vehicle back. Your car is typically impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons: as evidence, to prevent further operation by an impaired driver, or due to Ohio's OVI laws. Navigating the impound process in Ross County can be challenging due to its decentralized system, but understanding the steps involved can help you retrieve your vehicle quickly and efficiently.

Where Is Your Car?

Unlike some larger cities with centralized impound lots, Ross County utilizes a network of private towing companies dispatched by law enforcement. This means your vehicle could be at one of several locations, depending on which agency made the arrest and which company they called. Here are a couple of impound lots in Ross County:

• Burris Towing and Recovery: 26425 Tarlton Adelphi Rd, Laurelville, OH 43135
• Wilsons recovery llc: 663 Yellowbud Rd, Chillicothe, OH 45601

How to Find Your Vehicle

Because Ross County uses a rotational list for towing companies, it's crucial to determine which company towed your vehicle. Here's how:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have noted the name of the towing company on the paperwork you received.
• Call the Ross County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: Contact the Ross County Sheriff's Office for assistance.
• Reference your booking number: Provide this number when inquiring about your vehicle's location.

According to research, the primary point of friction for a defendant or their family is simply locating the vehicle. Because a rotational list is used, the arresting officer's agency must be contacted to determine which tow company was dispatched. If the Ohio State Highway Patrol initiated the arrest on US-23, the vehicle may be at a different facility than if the Chillicothe Police Department initiated the arrest.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Retrieving your vehicle requires specific documentation and adherence to impound lot procedures. Be prepared to present the following:

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: This is required to prove you are authorized to drive the vehicle off the lot. However, because the arresting officer seizes the driver's physical license and implements an Administrative License Suspension (ALS) immediately upon a test refusal or failure, the defendant cannot legally drive the vehicle off the impound lot.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is essential.
• Proof of insurance: This verifies the vehicle is insured.
• Payment for fees: You'll need to cover towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

Due to the Administrative License Suspension (ALS) that goes into effect immediately after a DUI arrest in Ohio, you may not have a valid driver's license. In this case:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: This is the most common solution.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you (if you are the registered owner), and the vehicle title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Ross County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the cost structure is crucial. Specific fee information for Burris Towing and Recovery and Wilsons recovery llc was not available.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize expenses.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Many private lots in Ross County prefer or even require cash payments for police-ordered impounds.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day costs more money. Contact the appropriate impound lot as soon as possible to determine the exact fees and arrange for retrieval.

After 30 Days

Ohio law allows impound lots to initiate a lien sale if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period, often around 30 days. This means they can sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding fees. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

The financial burden of impound fees can be significant, especially after a DUI arrest. Consider these options if you're struggling to pay:

• Contact a family member or friend to help cover costs: Pooling resources can make retrieval possible.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some lots may offer a payment arrangement, but this is not guaranteed.

After Retrieval

Once you retrieve your vehicle:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Check for any damage that may have occurred while in impound.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear pictures of any scratches, dents, or other issues.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Obtain a signed copy of the report for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to get my car out of impound in Ross County? A: While there isn't a strict deadline, storage fees accrue daily, and after approximately 30 days, the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover costs. It's best to retrieve your vehicle as soon as possible.

Q: Can someone else pick up my car for me if I don't have a valid license? A: Yes, a licensed driver can retrieve your vehicle with a signed authorization letter from you (if you are the registered owner), their valid driver's license, and the vehicle's title or registration.

Q: What happens if I can't afford to get my car out of impound in Ross County? A: Contact family or friends for assistance, inquire about payment plans with the impound lot, or consult with a DUI attorney to explore potential options.