Oconee County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Oconee County

A DUI arrest in Oconee County can be a disorienting experience. Beyond the immediate legal concerns, dealing with your impounded vehicle adds another layer of stress and expense. South Carolina law allows law enforcement to impound your vehicle following a DUI arrest. This guide provides immediate, practical steps to locate, retrieve, and protect your rights regarding your vehicle.

Where Is Your Car?

After a DUI arrest, your vehicle is typically towed and stored at a private impound lot contracted by the South Carolina Highway Patrol. Oconee County does not have a central, county-run impound facility. This means locating your vehicle requires some proactive steps.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Finding your car quickly is critical because storage fees accumulate daily. Here's how to track it down:

• 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 impounded your vehicle. This is the fastest way to determine where your car is located.
• Call the Oconee County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can't find the paperwork or the information is missing, contact the Oconee County Sheriff's Office. Their non-emergency number is (864) 638-4111. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and date of arrest, and they may be able to provide the towing company's information.
• Reference your booking number: When you were processed at the Oconee County Detention Center, you were assigned a booking number. This number can help the Sheriff's Office quickly locate your records and provide the necessary information about your vehicle. The Oconee County Detention Center is located at 300 S Church St, Walhalla, SC 29691.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, you'll need specific documents and funds to retrieve it. Be prepared to present the following:

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle on your behalf) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is essential. Bring the vehicle's registration or title.
• Proof of insurance: You'll 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 license is suspended due to the DUI arrest (as outlined in South Carolina's Implied Consent Law), you can still have someone else retrieve the vehicle for you. They will need:

• Their valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid license.
• A signed authorization letter from you: A written and signed letter authorizing them to pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• Vehicle title or registration: To prove ownership, they must present the vehicle's title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Oconee County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the cost structure is essential.

Typical towing fees in South Carolina range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees typically range from $25 to $50 per day. However, these fees can vary depending on the specific towing company and impound lot. It is crucial to call the impound lot directly to confirm their exact fees before you go.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily, starting from the moment your vehicle is towed. The longer you wait, the more expensive it will be to retrieve your vehicle.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Many accept cash, but some may also accept credit cards or money orders. Confirming this beforehand can save you a trip if you don't have the right form of payment.

Timeline

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

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accumulating as soon as your vehicle is towed. Each passing day adds to the total cost.

After 30 Days

Under South Carolina law § 56-5-5635, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period (typically 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This means they can sell your vehicle to the public. Do everything possible to retrieve your vehicle before it reaches this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider 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.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: A DUI attorney may be able to negotiate with the impound lot on your behalf or challenge the fees in certain circumstances. Because the Oconee County Magistrate Courts are strict, a DUI attorney familiar with the local court system can be invaluable.

After Retrieval

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

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in the impound lot.
• Document any damage with photos: Take photos of any damage you find as evidence.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Notify the impound lot manager in writing about any damage before you leave the premises. This creates a record of the damage and can help with any future claims.

Retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Oconee County requires prompt action and careful attention to detail. By following these steps, you can minimize costs and protect your rights. Remember, seeking legal counsel from a DUI attorney can provide further guidance and support throughout this challenging process.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where will my car be impounded after a DUI arrest in Oconee County? Your car will likely be towed to a private impound lot under contract with the South Carolina Highway Patrol, as Oconee County doesn't have its own central impound facility. Check your arrest paperwork for the tow company's name and contact information, or call the Oconee County Sheriff's Office at (864) 638-4111.
2. How long do I have to retrieve my vehicle before it's sold at auction? Under South Carolina law, impound lots can typically initiate a lien sale after about 30 days of the vehicle remaining unclaimed. Contact the specific impound lot holding your vehicle to confirm their exact policy.
3. Can I get a temporary driver's license to retrieve my vehicle if my license is suspended? Filing for an administrative hearing with the South Carolina Administrative Law Court, Office of Motor Vehicle Hearings (OMVH) may allow you to apply for a Temporary Alcohol License (TAL) at the Seneca DMV, located at 13009 South Radio Station Road, Seneca, SC 29678, after paying a $100 fee. Recent legislative changes require the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) to regain driving privileges.