Beaufort County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Beaufort County

After a DUI arrest in Beaufort County, South Carolina, one of your most immediate concerns is likely getting your vehicle back. South Carolina law allows law enforcement to impound vehicles following a DUI arrest. This guide provides a step-by-step breakdown of how to locate, retrieve, and handle the costs associated with getting your car back, minimizing further stress and expense during this challenging time.

Where Is Your Car?

Following a DUI arrest, your vehicle is typically towed to a private impound lot contracted by the arresting agency. Beaufort County Ordinance 2011-19 governs wrecker services. Unlike areas with a central municipal impound facility, Beaufort County relies on individual agency-specific wrecker rotation lists. Determining exactly where your vehicle was towed is the first critical step.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation that includes the name of the towing company that took possession of your vehicle. This is the quickest way to identify the impound location.
• Call the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot locate the paperwork, contact the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office at their non-emergency number. Be prepared to provide your name, date of birth, and date of arrest.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number from the Beaufort County Detention Center can expedite the process of locating your vehicle. The Beaufort County Detention Center is located at 100 Ribaut Rd, Beaufort, SC 29902.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, contact the impound lot to confirm their specific requirements for release. Generally, you'll need the following:

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle on your behalf) must present a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must prove ownership of the vehicle. A copy of the vehicle registration or the vehicle title will suffice.
• Proof of insurance: The vehicle must be insured. Provide a copy of your insurance card or policy.
• 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. You have two options:

• 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 (clearly stating their name and authorizing them to pick up your vehicle), and the vehicle title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Beaufort County

Retrieval costs consist primarily of towing fees and daily storage fees. Beaufort County Ordinance 2011-19 sets a statutory cap of $200.00 for standard towing fees. However, daily storage fees can quickly add up.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. According to Beaufort County ordinance, a critical 12-hour grace period exists before a $40.00 daily storage fee begins to accrue. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize these expenses.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Most accept cash, and some accept credit cards or money orders. Confirming this beforehand avoids delays and potential complications upon arrival.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing after 12 hours. Every passing day increases the total cost. Contact the towing company as soon as possible to arrange retrieval.

After 30 Days

South Carolina law allows impound lots to initiate a lien sale if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period, typically around 30 days. This means the lot can sell your vehicle to recover the outstanding fees. Do not allow the situation to reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

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

• 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, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. Inquire about this possibility.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: A DUI attorney may be able to negotiate with the impound lot or challenge the fees in certain circumstances.

After Retrieval

Before driving away from the impound lot, take the following precautions:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in the lot's possession.
• Document any damage with photos: Take photographs of any dents, scratches, or other damage.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing: Before leaving the premises, notify the lot manager of any damage in writing. Obtain a copy of the written report for your records. This documentation is crucial if you need to file a claim for damages.

Navigating the aftermath of a DUI arrest, including vehicle retrieval, can be overwhelming. By following these steps and acting quickly, you can minimize expenses and ensure a smoother process.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How much will it cost to get my car out of impound in Beaufort County? The towing fee is capped at $200, but storage fees are $40 per day starting after a 12-hour grace period. Call the specific impound lot for exact figures.
• What happens if I can't afford to get my car out of impound? Contact family/friends for help. Some lots offer payment plans. A DUI attorney may be able to negotiate fees.
• Can someone else pick up my car for me if my license is suspended? Yes, a licensed driver can pick up your car with a signed authorization letter from you, their valid license, and the vehicle registration or title.