Jasper County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Jasper County

Being arrested for DUI in Jasper County, South Carolina, is a stressful experience. On top of the legal challenges, you're likely facing the immediate problem of retrieving your impounded vehicle. When you are arrested for driving under the influence, your vehicle is often impounded to ensure public safety and prevent further incidents. This guide provides immediate, practical steps to help you navigate the process of getting your car back as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is locating your vehicle. Because Jasper County does not have a central, county-run impound lot, the South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP) and Jasper County Sheriff's Office utilize a "Wrecker Rotation List." This means your car could be at any number of private towing facilities in the area.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with paperwork that includes the name of the towing company that took your vehicle. This is the easiest and fastest way to find out where it is.
• Call the Jasper County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can't find the paperwork or the tow company isn't listed, call the Jasper County Communications Center at (843) 726-7519. They can access dispatch records and tell you which company towed your vehicle.
• Reference your booking number: Have your booking number ready when you call, as this will help them locate your records more quickly.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your car, 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, government-issued driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You need to prove ownership of the vehicle. Bring the registration or title.
• Proof of insurance: Current insurance documentation for the vehicle is required.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you can still get your car back, but you'll need someone else to retrieve it for you.

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: Ask a trusted friend or family member with a valid license to pick up the vehicle.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license
• A signed authorization letter from you, giving them permission to retrieve the vehicle.
• The vehicle registration or title (to prove your ownership).

Costs & Fees in Jasper County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so it's crucial to understand the potential costs. While the physical lots are private, the maximum rates they can charge for a police-ordered tow are strictly capped and regulated by the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS).

Typical towing fees in South Carolina can reach a maximum of $251.00. Daily storage fees can also accumulate, to a maximum of $40.00 per day for standard passenger vehicles. These are maximums, call ahead and ask to confirm the fees.

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

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm which payment methods they accept. Most facilities accept cash and major credit cards. Some may also accept money orders or certified checks. Card acceptance is mandated for rotation eligibility.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when it comes to retrieving your vehicle.

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day it sits in the impound lot costs you more money. Contact the towing company as soon as possible to arrange retrieval. Families should prioritize retrieving the vehicle immediately upon the defendant's release from jail in the morning to prevent the triggering of a second day's storage fee under the strict 12-hour rule.

After 30 Days

In South Carolina, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. You'll receive notification and have rights to contest the underlying costs before the vehicle is auctioned. Don't let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, explore these options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for financial assistance 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. It doesn't hurt to ask.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: An attorney may be able to negotiate the fees or challenge them if they are unreasonable.

After Retrieval

Before driving away with your vehicle, take these important steps:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photos of any dents, scratches, 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, and keep a copy of the report for your records. This is crucial for filing a claim later if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much is bail for a first DUI in Jasper County? A: Bail for a first-time DUI offense in Jasper County is strictly capped at $400.00, which is the statutory maximum fine for the offense.

Q: Where is the Jasper County Detention Center located? A: The Jasper County Detention Center (JCDC) is located at 12008 N Jacob Smart Blvd, Ridgeland, SC 29936, off I-95, Exit 22.

Q: How can I find out which towing company has my car in Jasper County? A: Contact the Jasper County Communications Center at (843) 726-7519. They can access dispatch records and tell you which company towed your vehicle.