Shelby County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Shelby County

After a DUI arrest in Shelby County, Ohio, one of your most immediate concerns will be retrieving your vehicle. Vehicles are typically impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons, including public safety and to prevent further illegal operation. Knowing the steps to take can save you time and money. This guide provides the information you need to locate, claim, and retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

Following a DUI arrest in Shelby County, your vehicle is usually towed and stored at a designated impound lot. This is standard procedure to ensure public safety and prevent further operation of the vehicle by someone suspected of driving under the influence. The arresting officer will arrange for the vehicle to be towed to an approved storage facility. The fees for towing and storage are your responsibility.

Where Is Your Car?

Shelby County utilizes a decentralized system of private towing contractors. This means there isn't one central impound lot. The exact location of your vehicle depends on which towing company was called by the arresting officer. Here are a couple of lots that the Shelby County Sheriff's Office uses:

• Shelby County Sheriff's Office: 555 Gearhart Rd, Sidney, OH 45365.
• H&N Towing & Recovery: 521 E North St, Sidney, OH 45365.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Locating your vehicle quickly is crucial to minimize storage fees. Here's how to find out where your car is impounded:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should provide documentation that includes the name and contact information of the towing company that took your vehicle.
• Call the Shelby County Sheriff's Office: Contact the non-emergency line at (937) 498-1111. Provide your name, date of arrest, and the approximate location where you were stopped. They can help you identify the towing company.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number ready when you call can help expedite the process.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before you can retrieve your vehicle, you must gather the necessary documents and be prepared to pay the associated fees.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must provide proof of ownership, such as the vehicle registration or title.
• Proof of insurance: You'll need to show proof of current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• 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 personally retrieve the vehicle. In this case, you can:

• 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. If you are incarcerated in the Shelby County Jail, the authorization must be notarized.
• The vehicle title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Shelby County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the costs involved is essential.

• Daily Storage Fee: $N/A
• Tow Fee: Varies by contractor.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily, starting from the moment your vehicle is impounded. The longer you wait, the more it will cost.

In 2020, the Sidney City Council considered implementing a cap on daily storage fees, potentially setting the limit at $10 per day. However, it is critical to verify the current rates with the specific towing company holding your vehicle.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Many private towing companies in Shelby County operate on a "cash only" basis.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accumulating the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the total amount you owe. Contact the relevant authorities and towing company as soon as possible to start the retrieval process.

After 30 Days

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 legally sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding fees. Avoid this situation by acting promptly.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider the following options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance in covering the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate or challenge the fees. Also, consider the city of Sidney's "Alternative Service Program," which allows indigent defendants who cannot afford the exorbitant fines associated with OVI and traffic offenses to physically work off their financial obligations by performing manual community service for local non-profit organizations and municipal departments.

After Retrieval

Once you have paid the fees and presented the required documents, you can retrieve your vehicle. Before leaving the impound lot:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in storage.
• Document any damage with photos: Take photos of any scratches, dents, or other damage.
• 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 will help protect your rights if you need to file a claim later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long will my car be impounded after a DUI arrest in Shelby County? A: The impound duration isn't fixed and depends on the circumstances of your arrest and any court orders. Contact the Shelby County Sheriff's Office for specifics related to your case.

Q: Can someone else pick up my car for me if I'm still in jail? A: Yes, but you must sign a notarized release authorization form from inside the Shelby County Jail, explicitly granting a designated third party permission to act on their behalf. The retrieving party must bring this original, notarized document.

Q: What happens if I can't afford to get my car out of impound? A: The city of Sidney maintains a rigorous "Alternative Service Program," which allows indigent defendants who cannot afford the exorbitant fines associated with OVI and traffic offenses to physically work off their financial obligations by performing manual community service for local non-profit organizations and municipal departments. Contact the Shelby County Sheriff's Office for specifics related to your case.