Union County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Union County

A DUI arrest in Union County, South Carolina, can be a stressful experience. Besides the legal ramifications, you're likely also dealing with the immediate issue of your impounded vehicle. This guide provides practical information on how to retrieve your car as quickly and efficiently as possible. DUI.Guide is here to help you navigate this challenging situation.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in South Carolina, law enforcement typically impounds your vehicle. This is standard procedure to ensure public safety and to prevent you from driving while impaired again immediately. Understanding the impound process is crucial to minimizing costs and getting your life back on track.

Where Is Your Car?

Locating your vehicle is the first step. Knowing where it is impounded will allow you to start the retrieval process.

Official Impound Lots in Union County

Unfortunately, we do not currently have specific impound lot data for Union County. However, we are working to gather this information. Please check back soon for a detailed list with addresses, phone numbers, and hours of operation.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Since we don't have a list of impound lots yet, here's how to find out where your car is located:

• Call Union County Police/Sheriff: Contact the Union County Sheriff's Office or the police department that made the arrest. Their phone number is .
• Reference Your Case Number: Have your arrest paperwork ready, as you'll likely need to provide your case number or booking number.
• Most Vehicles Towed Within 24 Hours of Arrest: Your car was likely towed within 24 hours of your arrest. Make these calls as soon as possible.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Being prepared with the necessary documents will expedite the retrieval process.

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License (or someone with a valid license): You, or the person retrieving the vehicle, must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle Registration: You'll need proof that the vehicle is registered.
• Proof of Insurance: You'll need to show proof of current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• Cash or Credit Card for Fees: Impound lots typically accept cash or credit cards. Contact the specific lot to confirm their accepted payment methods.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, 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.
• Authorization from You: A signed letter authorizing them to pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• Vehicle Title/Registration: Proof of ownership (title or registration) linking you to the vehicle.

Costs & Fees in Union County

The costs associated with impounding your vehicle can add up quickly, so understanding the fee structure is essential.

Typical Fees

• Towing Fee: Expect to pay between $150 and $300 for the towing service.
• Daily Storage: Daily storage fees can range from $20 to $50 per day. This is where costs can escalate rapidly.
• Administrative Fees: You might encounter administrative fees in the range of $[range] (We are researching typical ranges for Union County).
• Release Fee: A release fee of $[amount] may also be charged (We are researching typical amounts for Union County).

IMPORTANT: These fees accumulate daily. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes to retrieve your vehicle. Act quickly!

Payment Methods

Unfortunately, we do not have specific payment method information for impound lots in Union County. Contact the impound lot directly to confirm which payment methods they accept (cash, credit card, debit card, etc.).

Timeline

Understanding the timeline is critical to avoid further complications.

Within 24 Hours

Retrieving your car within the first 24 hours is highly recommended to minimize daily storage fees.

After 30 Days

If your vehicle remains unclaimed for 30 days or more, the impound lot may have the legal right to sell it at a lien sale to recover their costs.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Financial constraints can make it challenging to retrieve your vehicle. Here are some options:

Options

• Borrow from Family/Friends: Ask for assistance from family members or friends.
• Payment Plans (Some Lots Offer This): Inquire with the impound lot about payment plan options. Some lots may be willing to work with you.
• Sign Vehicle Over to Impound Lot (Avoid Debt but Lose Car): As a last resort, you can sign the vehicle over to the impound lot. This will relieve you of the accumulating debt, but you will lose ownership of the car.

What NOT to Do

• Don't Wait - Fees Add Up Fast: Procrastination will only increase the financial burden.
• Don't Abandon the Vehicle: Abandoning the vehicle can lead to further legal issues and fines.

Special Situations

Certain circumstances may require additional steps.

If Your Car Was Evidence

If the police are holding your car as evidence related to your DUI case, it may be held longer. You'll need to obtain a release authorization from the police department before you can retrieve it. Contact your attorney for assistance with this process.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

If the vehicle is registered in someone else's name (e.g., a family member), the registered owner has the right to retrieve the vehicle, regardless of your situation. They will need to provide proof of ownership (title or registration) and a valid driver's license.

After Retrieval

Once you've retrieved your vehicle, take these precautions:

Check Your Vehicle

Thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.

Document Any Damage Immediately

Document any damage with photos and a written description.

Take Photos

Take clear photos of the damage from various angles.

Report Damage to Impound Lot Manager

Report any damage to the impound lot manager immediately and obtain a written acknowledgment of your report. This will be crucial if you need to file a claim for damages later.

Union County Impound Lot Locations

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and procedures can change. It is essential to consult with a qualified attorney for advice regarding your specific situation.

We at DUI.Guide are committed to providing you with the resources you need to navigate the complexities of a DUI arrest. Please consult with a qualified attorney in Union County, South Carolina, to discuss your legal options.