Newberry County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Newberry County

Being arrested for DUI in Newberry County, South Carolina, is a stressful experience. Besides the legal ramifications, one of your immediate concerns is likely, "Where's my car?" This guide provides practical steps to locate and retrieve your vehicle as quickly and efficiently as possible. Time is of the essence, as storage fees accumulate daily.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI, your vehicle is typically impounded for several reasons. Primarily, it prevents you from driving while impaired. It also provides law enforcement with time to investigate the incident and ensure the vehicle is not involved in any other crimes. The arresting officer will arrange for a towing company to take your car to an impound lot. Understanding this process is the first step toward getting your car back.

Where Is Your Car?

The most pressing question is figuring out where your vehicle was towed. Unlike some larger cities with central impound facilities, Newberry County utilizes a rotational system with private towing companies. This means your car could be at any one of several different lots depending on which company was on call in the specific zone where you were arrested.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Here's how to track down your vehicle:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer is supposed to provide documentation that includes the name and contact information of the towing company that took your vehicle. Look carefully at all the documents you received at the time of your arrest.
• Call the Newberry County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can't find the information on your paperwork, contact the Newberry County Sheriff's Office at 803-321-2211. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and details about your vehicle (make, model, color, license plate number). They should be able to look up which company towed your car.
• Reference your booking number: When you call the Sheriff's Office, having your booking number ready will help them locate your information more quickly. This number should be on your release paperwork.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, you'll need to gather the necessary documents to retrieve it. Be prepared, as the impound lot will likely require specific paperwork before releasing your car.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid, unexpired driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You'll need to prove ownership of the vehicle. Bring the vehicle's registration or title. A copy may be accepted, but it's best to have the original.
• Proof of insurance: You must 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 license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot retrieve the vehicle yourself.

• 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 for you.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license
• A signed authorization letter from you, granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle on your behalf. This letter should include your name, their name, the vehicle's description, and your signature.
• The vehicle's title or registration to prove ownership.

Costs & Fees in Newberry County

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

Typical towing fees in South Carolina range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees are usually between $25 and $50 per day. However, these are just estimates. The exact fees will vary depending on the specific towing company contracted in your case. The Newberry County Sheriff's Office utilizes a zone-based rotational system administered under the oversight of SCHP Troop Two. Towing companies operating on the rotation list are required to submit proposed fee schedules to the SCHP Troop Two Commander for formal approval.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue every day, starting the moment your vehicle is towed. This means every day you delay retrieving your vehicle, the more it will cost you.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm which payment methods they accept. Most accept cash and major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover). Some may also accept money orders. Personal checks are rarely accepted.

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 costs more money. Contact the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office immediately after your release to determine where your car is being held.

After 30 Days

In South Carolina, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot has the right to initiate a lien sale. This means they can sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding towing and storage fees. You will lose your vehicle and any equity you have in it. 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, consider the following:

• 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 impound lots may be willing to work with you on a payment plan, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. This is not a common practice, but it's worth asking.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: A DUI attorney familiar with Newberry County courts may be able to negotiate with the towing company to reduce the fees or challenge the impoundment altogether, especially if there were any irregularities in the arrest or towing process.

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 while it was in the impound lot's possession.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear 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 lot manager of the damage in writing, and keep a copy of the written report for your records. This will be crucial 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 Newberry County and minimize the financial burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

**1. How long does the Newberry County Detention Center keep records of impounded vehicles?*While the exact retention period is unavailable, it's best to contact the Newberry County Sheriff's Office as soon as possible after your release to inquire about your vehicle.

**2. Can I get a temporary hardship license in Newberry County to retrieve my vehicle if my license is suspended?*South Carolina law dictates the requirements for hardship licenses. Contact the South Carolina DMV to determine your eligibility. A hardship license may allow you to drive for specific purposes, such as going to work or attending court-ordered programs, but it may not permit you to retrieve an impounded vehicle.

**3. What recourse do I have if I believe the towing fees charged by a Newberry County impound lot are excessive?*Towing companies operating on the rotation list are required to submit proposed fee schedules to the SCHP Troop Two Commander for formal approval. Demand an itemized receipt and compare it against the state-approved fee schedule. If you believe you've been overcharged, consult with a DUI attorney about potential legal options.