Kershaw County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Kershaw County

Being arrested for DUI in Kershaw County, South Carolina, can be a stressful and confusing experience. One of the first logistical hurdles you'll face is retrieving your vehicle, which is standard procedure to impound it after a DUI arrest. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to locating your car, understanding the requirements for its release, and minimizing storage fees. Acting quickly is crucial to avoid additional expenses and potential complications.

Where Is Your Car?

Unlike some larger cities with centralized municipal impound lots, Kershaw County utilizes a rotational system of private towing companies. This means your car could be at any one of several different lots contracted by law enforcement. Finding out exactly where your vehicle was towed is the first step.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with paperwork that includes the name and contact information of the towing company that took your vehicle. This is the most direct way to find your car's location.
• Call the Kershaw County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you don't have the paperwork or can't read it, you can call the Kershaw County Sheriff's Office non-emergency number at 803-425-1500. Be prepared to provide your name, date of birth, and the approximate location and time of your arrest.
• Reference your booking number: When contacting the Kershaw County Sheriff's Office, providing your booking number (obtained during the intake process at the Kershaw County Detention Center) can expedite the search. You can use the Kershaw County Inmate Search to locate your booking information.

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. Towing companies in South Carolina operate under strict regulations and will not release a vehicle without proper verification.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or a licensed person picking it up for you): This is essential. The towing company needs to verify the identity of the person claiming the vehicle. If your license was confiscated due to the DUI arrest (especially after a breathalyzer refusal or a BAC over .15%), you'll need someone with a valid license to pick it up for you.
• Vehicle registration or title: This proves ownership of the vehicle. Make sure the name on the registration matches the name on the driver's license (or the authorization letter, if someone else is picking it up for you).
• Proof of insurance: You must provide current proof of insurance for the vehicle.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay the towing and storage fees. The exact amount will vary depending on the towing company and the length of time the vehicle has been stored.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or you don't have a valid license for any other reason, you can still have someone else retrieve the vehicle for you. Here's what they'll need:

• Their valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid license.
• A signed authorization letter from you: This letter should state that you authorize the person to pick up your vehicle on your behalf. Include your name, date of birth, vehicle information (make, model, VIN), and the name of the person you're authorizing.
• Vehicle title or registration: This proves you own the vehicle and have the right to authorize someone to pick it up.

Costs & Fees in Kershaw County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly. It's important to understand the potential costs involved so you can plan accordingly.

Typical towing fees in South Carolina range from $251.00 for a Class A vehicle, $352.00 for a Class B vehicle, and $511.00 for a Class C vehicle. Daily storage rates are typically $40.00 (Class A), $50.00 (Class B), and $66.00 (Class C). These fees are set by the South Carolina Department of Public Safety.

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

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Many prefer cash, but some may accept credit cards or money orders. Don't assume they'll take a personal check.

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 that passes costs you more money. Contact the Kershaw County Sheriff's Office or the arresting agency immediately to determine the location of your vehicle.

After 30 Days

Most states, including South Carolina, allow the impound lot to initiate a lien sale if the vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period. After a certain number of days (usually 30), the lot can sell your vehicle to recover the towing and storage fees. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, here are a few options to consider:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask if they can help you cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some towing companies may be willing to work with you on a payment plan, but this is not guaranteed.
• Consult with your attorney: A DUI attorney can advise you on your legal options and may be able to negotiate with the towing company on your behalf.

After Retrieval

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

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred during the towing or storage process.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photos of any damage you find.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Notify the lot manager of any damage in writing and keep a copy of the report for your records. This will help you if you need to file a claim later.

Navigating the process of retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Kershaw County can be challenging. By following these steps and acting quickly, you can minimize expenses and get your car back as smoothly as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I find out which towing company has my car if I was arrested by the South Carolina Highway Patrol in Kershaw County? Contact Troop 1 dispatch to inquire which vendor executed the tow.
2. What happens if I refuse a breathalyzer test during a DUI arrest in Kershaw County? Your driver's license will be immediately suspended at the scene of the arrest. You have 30 days to request a "Contested Case Hearing" to challenge the suspension.
3. If I am not the registered owner of the vehicle, can I still retrieve it from the impound lot in Kershaw County? No, the tow yard will categorically refuse to release the vehicle to the driver. The registered owner must be physically present with matching identification.