Laurens County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Laurens County

Being arrested for DUI in Laurens County, South Carolina, is a stressful experience, and one of the immediate concerns is often: what happens to my car? Vehicles are typically impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons: to ensure public safety, to prevent further operation of the vehicle by an impaired driver, and as part of the legal process. Understanding the steps to retrieve your vehicle is crucial to minimize costs and avoid further complications. This guide provides practical information to help you navigate the process of getting your car back in Laurens County.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is determining where your vehicle was towed. Unlike some larger jurisdictions, Laurens County doesn't operate a single, central impound lot. Instead, the Laurens County Sheriff's Office utilizes a localized Wrecker Rotation List when vehicles are towed. This means your vehicle was likely taken to a private towing company contracted by the Sheriff's Office or the South Carolina Highway Patrol.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Here's how to locate your vehicle:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with paperwork that includes the name and contact information for the towing company that took your vehicle. This is the fastest and most reliable way to find your car.
• Call the Laurens County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can't find the paperwork or the information is unclear, contact the Laurens County Sheriff's Office at their non-emergency number. They should be able to provide you with the name and contact information of the towing company.
• Reference your booking number: When you call the Sheriff's Office, having your booking number ready will help them locate your information more quickly. The Johnson Detention Center's booking/intake phone number is (864) 683-4783.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your vehicle is located, contact the towing company to confirm their specific requirements for release. Generally, you will need the following:

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid driver's license. If your license was confiscated due to the DUI arrest, see the section below on alternatives.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must prove ownership of the vehicle. Bring the vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: You will need to show proof that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your driver's license was seized during the DUI arrest (as per South Carolina's Implied Consent law), you have a few options:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: The easiest solution is to have a licensed driver pick up the vehicle for you.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you allowing them to pick up the vehicle on your behalf, and the vehicle title or registration to prove your ownership.
• Secure a Temporary Alcohol License (TAL): If you have already navigated the SCDMV process, you might be able to use a TAL.
• Rely on a secondary form of government-issued photo ID: A passport can be used as a valid form of identification.

Costs & Fees in Laurens County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so it's essential to understand the potential costs involved. While exact figures vary, here's a general idea of what to expect:

Typical towing fees in South Carolina range from $150 to $300 for a standard tow. Daily storage fees usually range from $25 to $50 per day. It's important to note that the vehicle impoundment is also subject to maximum state-regulated fees of $251 for a flat tow.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily. The longer you wait to retrieve your vehicle, the more it will cost.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm what forms of payment they accept. Most accept cash, but some may also accept credit cards or money orders. It's best to be prepared.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Time is of the essence when it comes to retrieving your vehicle. Storage fees begin accumulating the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes adds to the total cost.

After 30 Days

In South Carolina, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period (typically 30 days), the towing company has the right to initiate a lien sale. This means they can sell your vehicle to recover the unpaid towing and storage fees. Do everything you can to avoid this situation.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider these options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for help from someone who can assist with covering the costs.
• Ask the impound lot about a payment plan: Some towing companies may offer a payment plan, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. It's worth asking if this is an option.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: In some cases, a DUI attorney may be able to negotiate with the towing company or challenge the fees if they are excessive or unjustified.

After Retrieval

Before driving your vehicle away from the impound lot, take the following steps:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in the possession of the towing company.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photos of any damage you find.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing: Before you leave the lot, notify the manager in writing about any damage you discovered. This will help protect your rights if you need to file a claim for damages later.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to get my car out of impound in Laurens County before it's sold? A: Generally, the impound lot can begin lien sale proceedings after about 30 days of unpaid storage. Contact the specific lot holding your vehicle to confirm their exact policy.

Q: Can I get my personal belongings out of the car before I pay the impound fees? A: You can usually arrange to retrieve essential personal items from the vehicle, such as medication or work tools. Contact the impound lot to arrange a time and confirm their specific procedures.

Q: What if the car isn't registered in my name? Can I still get it out of impound? A: If the vehicle is not registered in your name, you will likely need a notarized letter from the registered owner authorizing you to retrieve it, along with a copy of their driver's license. Contact the impound lot for their specific requirements.