Richland County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Richland County

Being arrested for DUI in Richland County can be a disorienting and stressful experience. One immediate concern is often: what happens to my car? South Carolina law allows law enforcement to impound vehicles following a DUI arrest for various reasons, including public safety and evidence preservation. Understanding the process for retrieving your vehicle is crucial to minimize costs and avoid further complications. This guide provides a clear roadmap for navigating the vehicle impound process in Richland County.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI, the arresting officer typically arranges for your vehicle to be towed and stored at an impound lot. This is standard procedure to prevent the vehicle from being a hazard, especially if you're unable to drive legally. The tow company acts as a custodian of your vehicle, and you'll be responsible for all associated towing and storage fees. The law grants tow companies the right to hold the vehicle's license plate hostage until all debts are settled in full. If the vehicle remains unclaimed for a statutory period, it is officially declared abandoned and sold at public auction to satisfy the accrued debt, permanently depriving the defendant of their primary mode of transportation.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is locating your vehicle. The arresting officer should provide you with documentation indicating where your car was towed. However, if you don't have that information, don't panic. There are several ways to track down your vehicle.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The most direct way to find out where your car was towed is to carefully review the paperwork provided by the arresting officer. The name and contact information for the towing company should be listed.
• Call the Richland County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot locate the paperwork, contact the Richland County Sheriff's Office using their non-emergency phone number. Explain the situation and provide as much detail as possible, such as the location of the arrest and a description of your vehicle.
• Reference your booking number: When you call the Sheriff's Office, having your booking number readily available can expedite the process. This number is assigned to you during the booking process at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, you'll need to gather the necessary documents to claim it. The impound lot will require proof of ownership and your ability to legally operate the vehicle (or have someone else do so).

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must provide proof that you own the vehicle. This can be either the vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: You'll need to show proof of current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• 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 or you don't have a valid license for any other reason, you can still have someone else retrieve the vehicle for you.

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

Costs & Fees in Richland County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so it's important to understand the potential costs involved. Towing fees in South Carolina typically range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees usually run between $25 and $50 per day.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. The longer you wait to retrieve your vehicle, the more expensive it will become.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Many lots accept cash, credit cards, and money orders, but it's always best to verify before you go.

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 passing day increases the total cost.

After 30 Days

In South Carolina, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period (often 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their fees. This means they can legally sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding debt. Do everything possible to avoid this scenario.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're facing financial hardship and struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, explore the following options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance in covering the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, allowing you to pay off the fees over time. It's worth inquiring about this possibility.
• 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. Given the immediate and long-term implications of a DUI, obtaining legal representation is advisable.

After Retrieval

Once you've paid the fees and retrieved your vehicle, take the following precautions:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any signs of damage that may have occurred while it was in the impound lot's possession.
• Document any damage with photos: Take detailed photos of any damage you find.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Inform the impound lot manager of any damage in writing before you leave the premises. This will create a record of your claim and protect your rights.

Retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Richland County requires prompt action and careful attention to detail. By following these steps, you can navigate the process effectively and minimize the financial burden. Remember to consult with a DUI attorney as soon as possible to understand your legal options and protect your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where will my car be towed after a DUI arrest in Richland County? Your car is towed to a local impound lot contracted by the arresting agency. The arresting officer should provide you with that information. If not, call the Richland County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line.
2. What happens if I can't afford to get my car out of impound in Richland County? Contact the impound lot to ask about payment plans. You can also ask family or friends for financial assistance. A DUI attorney may also be able to assist in negotiating with the impound lot.
3. How long do I have to get my car out of impound before it's sold in Richland County? South Carolina law allows the impound lot to initiate a lien sale after a certain period, often around 30 days. Contact the specific impound lot where your car is stored to confirm their exact policy.