Union County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Union, OH

A DUI arrest in Union, Ohio can be a stressful and confusing experience. One immediate concern is often: what happens to my car? Typically, after a DUI arrest, your vehicle will be impounded. This guide provides you with the practical steps you need to take to retrieve your vehicle as quickly and efficiently as possible. Time is of the essence to minimize accumulating fees.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI in Union, your vehicle is impounded for a few key reasons:

• Public Safety: To prevent you from driving under the influence again immediately.
• Evidence: The vehicle might be held as evidence in your case.
• Administrative Hold: To ensure you comply with legal requirements related to the DUI charge.

Understanding why your car was impounded is the first step in getting it back.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding out where your car is impounded is crucial. Here's how to track it down:

Official Impound Lots in Union

Unfortunately, we don't have specific impound lot information for Union, OH at this time. However, this information is being actively researched and will be updated on dui.guide as soon as possible.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Call Union Police/Sheriff: Your best bet is to contact the Union Police Department or the Union County Sheriff's Office. Ask them where your vehicle was towed.
• Union Police Department:
• Union County Sheriff's Office:
• Reference your case number: When you call, provide your name and case number (if you have it) to help them locate your vehicle information quickly.
• Most vehicles towed within 24 hours of arrest: Your car is likely at the impound lot within 24 hours of your arrest. This is important to know for timeline and fee calculations.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your car is, you'll need specific documents to retrieve it.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or someone authorized to pick up the vehicle) MUST have a valid driver's license. If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you'll need someone else to retrieve the vehicle.
• Vehicle registration: Proof that the vehicle is registered.
• Proof of insurance: Current insurance card or policy information.
• Cash or credit card for fees: Be prepared to pay towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or you don't have a valid license for any reason, you'll need someone else to pick up your vehicle. They will need:

• Their valid driver's license.
• Authorization from you: A signed letter or document authorizing them to pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• Vehicle title or registration: Proof of ownership.

Costs & Fees in Union

Understanding the costs involved is essential to avoid surprises.

Typical Fees

• Towing fee: Expect to pay between $150 and $300 for the towing service.
• Daily storage: Daily storage fees typically range from $20 to $50 per day. These fees accrue quickly!
• Administrative fees: Administrative fees can vary, so inquire about the exact amount. We anticipate this range to be between $[range] in Union County.
• Release fee: A release fee may also be charged. Inquire with the impound lot, but budget for around $[amount].

IMPORTANT: Fees accumulate DAILY. Delaying retrieval will significantly increase the total cost.

Payment Methods

Check with the specific impound lot for accepted payment methods. Most likely, they will accept:

• Cash
• Credit Card (Visa, Mastercard, Discover)

Timeline

Acting quickly is crucial to minimize costs and potential complications.

Within 24 Hours

Aim to retrieve your vehicle as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours of the impound. This will help you avoid excessive daily storage fees.

After 30 Days

If your vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot may have the right to sell it at a lien sale to recover their costs. You will lose your vehicle if you do not act.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Financial constraints can make retrieving your vehicle difficult, but there are options.

Options

• Borrow from family/friends: Asking for assistance from loved ones can provide immediate financial relief.
• Payment plans: Inquire with the impound lot about payment plan options. Some lots may offer a structured payment arrangement.
• Sign vehicle over to impound lot: As a last resort, you may be able to sign the vehicle title over to the impound lot to avoid accumulating further debt. However, you will lose ownership of the car.

What NOT to Do

• Don't wait: Procrastination will only increase the fees and make the situation worse.
• Don't abandon the vehicle: Abandoning your vehicle can lead to further legal consequences and additional fines.

Special Situations

Certain circumstances can complicate the retrieval process.

If Your Car Was Evidence

If the police are holding your vehicle as evidence in your DUI case, it may be held longer than usual. You'll need to obtain a release authorization from the police department or the court before you can retrieve it. Contact your attorney immediately to discuss this situation.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

If the vehicle is registered to someone else (e.g., a family member or leasing company), the registered owner has the right to retrieve the vehicle regardless of your DUI arrest. They will need to provide proof of ownership (title or registration) and their valid driver's license.

After Retrieval

Once you've retrieved your vehicle, take these steps:

Check Your Vehicle

Thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.

Document any Damage Immediately

Take photos and make detailed notes of any dents, scratches, or other damage.

Report Damage to Impound Lot Manager

Report any damage to the impound lot manager immediately and file a written claim. This documentation is crucial if you need to pursue compensation for the damage.

Union Impound Lot Locations

[This section will be populated with detailed information on Union, OH impound lot locations as soon as the data is available. This will include addresses, phone numbers, operating hours, and map references.]

We are actively gathering information on impound lot locations in Union, Ohio, to provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information. Please check back regularly for updates. In the meantime, contact the Union Police Department or the Union County Sheriff's Office for immediate assistance in locating your vehicle.

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult with an attorney to discuss the specifics of your DUI case.