Summit County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Summit County

After a DUI arrest in Summit County, Ohio, your vehicle is often impounded. This is standard procedure to ensure public safety and prevent further potential offenses. Understanding the process for retrieving your vehicle is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications. This guide provides the essential steps and information you need to get your car back as quickly as possible.

Where Is Your Car?

Your vehicle was likely towed to one of the authorized impound lots in Summit County. Here are some common locations:

• Rubber City Towing: 1472 Jacoby Rd, Copley, OH 44321
• Big Mike’s Towing and Recovery: 556 Barber Rd, Barberton, OH 44203

How to Find Your Vehicle

Locating your vehicle quickly is essential to reduce storage fees. Here are several ways to find out where your car is impounded:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation that includes the name of the towing company and its contact information.
• Call the Summit County Sheriff's Office: You can contact the Summit County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line to inquire about the location of your vehicle. Their phone number can be found on the Summit County Sheriff's Office Patrol Division page.
• Reference your booking number: When you call, provide your booking number to help them locate your vehicle information more efficiently.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Gathering the necessary documents and preparing for payment will streamline the retrieval process.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is required to claim the vehicle.
• Proof of insurance: You must demonstrate that the vehicle is currently insured.
• 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 the DUI arrest, you cannot personally retrieve the vehicle. 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, and the vehicle's title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Summit County

Towing and storage fees can accumulate rapidly, so understanding the costs involved is crucial.

• Daily Storage Fee: The daily storage fee at Rubber City Towing and Big Mike's Towing and Recovery is not available at this time.

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

Payment

Contact the specific impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Many accept cash and credit cards, while some may also accept money orders.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when retrieving your vehicle.

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Each passing day adds to the overall cost.

After 30 Days

In many states, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for approximately 30 days, the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. To avoid this, act promptly.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are 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 if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans to help you manage the expense.

After Retrieval

Once you retrieve your vehicle:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any new damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photographs 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 to protect your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

1Where will I be arraigned after a DUI arrest in Summit County? The overwhelming majority of misdemeanor OVI cases initiated by the Akron Police Department (APD) or the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) are adjudicated at the Akron Municipal Court, located at 172 S Broadway St, Akron, OH 44308.

2What happens if I miss my court date at the Akron Municipal Court? If you miss your court date at the Akron Municipal Court, a bench warrant will likely be issued for your arrest, and any cash bond you previously posted may be forfeited under OH law §2937.35.

3Does the Akron Municipal Court allow remote appearances for OVI offenses? No, the Akron Municipal Court explicitly deems OVI offenses ineligible for remote Zoom hearings. Defendants must physically present themselves in the courtroom for all OVI-related proceedings.

Sources

• Summit County Sheriff's Office Patrol Division
• Justia - Best DUI Lawyers in Summit County, OH
• Akron Municipal Court