Charleston County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Charleston County

Being arrested for DUI in Charleston County can be a disorienting experience. Beyond the immediate legal concerns, you're likely wondering what happens to your vehicle. In most DUI cases, the arresting officer will have your car towed and impounded. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to locating, retrieving, and understanding the costs associated with getting your vehicle back. Acting quickly is key to minimizing expenses and navigating the process smoothly.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is determining where your car was towed. The arresting officer should provide documentation indicating the towing company used and the location of the impound lot. However, if you don't have this information readily available, there are a few ways to locate your vehicle.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The paperwork provided by the arresting officer should list the name and contact information of the towing company that impounded your vehicle.
• Call the Charleston County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can't find the information on your paperwork, contact the Charleston County Sheriff's Office. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and the approximate location where you were arrested. They should be able to provide the name and contact information of the towing company.
• Reference your booking number: Your booking number can help the Sheriff's office quickly locate your records. The Charleston County Sheriff's Office also has an online Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center - Processing page. You can search for arrests on the Sheriff's Office | Charleston County, SC | Search for Arrests page.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, you'll need to gather the necessary documents and payment to retrieve it.

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's registration or title.
• Proof of insurance: You must provide proof of current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• Payment for fees: You'll need to pay all towing and storage fees before the vehicle is released.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your driver's license has been suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot retrieve the vehicle yourself. In this case, you have two options:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: Ask a licensed friend or family member to retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you granting them permission to pick up the vehicle, and the vehicle's title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Charleston County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so it's important to understand the potential costs involved.

Typical towing fees in South Carolina range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees typically range from $20 to $30 per day after the initial 24 hours. These rates can vary depending on the specific towing company and the circumstances of the impound.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily, starting the day after the vehicle is towed. Every day your vehicle remains in the impound lot, the costs increase.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm which payment methods they accept. Most impound lots accept cash and major credit cards. Some may also accept money orders or certified checks. Be prepared to pay the full amount due before the vehicle will be released.

Timeline

Act Immediately

The clock starts ticking the moment your vehicle is towed. Storage fees begin accruing quickly, so it's crucial to act immediately to minimize expenses.

After 30 Days

In South Carolina, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot may have the right to initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This means they can sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding fees. To prevent this, retrieve your vehicle as soon as possible.

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 to help cover costs: Reach out to your support network and ask for assistance.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans or allow you to pay the fees in installments. It doesn't hurt to ask.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: A DUI attorney can review your case and advise you on your legal options. In some cases, they may be able to negotiate with the towing company to reduce the fees or challenge the impound altogether.

After Retrieval

Before driving your vehicle off the impound lot, take the following precautions:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Carefully inspect the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in the impound lot's custody.
• Document any damage with photos: Take photos of any dents, scratches, or other damage you find.
• 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 you file a claim if necessary.

By following these steps, you can navigate the process of retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Charleston County and minimize the associated costs and complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to request an administrative hearing with the DMV after my DUI arrest in Charleston County? A: In South Carolina, you typically have 30 days from the date of your DUI arrest to request an administrative hearing with the South Carolina DMV to challenge the suspension of your driver's license.

Q: Where in Charleston County do I go to complete the ADSAP (Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program) requirement after a DUI conviction? A: You can contact the Charleston Center, which is the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) for Charleston County, to inquire about ADSAP services. Charleston Center: Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS)

Q: Can I get a temporary or restricted driver's license in Charleston County while my license is suspended for DUI? A: Depending on the circumstances of your case and whether you enroll in ADSAP, you might be eligible for a temporary or restricted driver's license that allows you to drive to work, school, or ADSAP classes. Consult with the SCDMV for specific requirements. SCDMV Public Services-Transaction List