Union County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Union County

Being arrested for DUI in Union County, South Carolina, can be a disorienting experience. Beyond the legal ramifications, a critical immediate concern is often: where is my car, and how do I get it back? Vehicles are typically impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons, including public safety and to prevent further operation by an impaired driver. Understanding the impound process and acting quickly is essential to minimize expenses and avoid further complications. This guide provides practical steps to navigate vehicle retrieval in Union County.

Where Is Your Car?

After a DUI arrest in Union County, your vehicle is likely towed and stored at a local impound lot. The arresting officer usually arranges for the tow. Identifying the specific lot holding your vehicle is the first critical step. Unfortunately, no central database or county-wide list exists. Here's how to track down your car:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer from the Union County Sheriff's Office or the South Carolina Highway Patrol should have provided documentation that includes the name and contact information of the towing company used. This is the quickest and most direct way to find your vehicle.
• Call the Union County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot locate the paperwork or the information is missing, contact the Union County Sheriff's Office at the non-emergency number. Their dispatchers can assist in identifying the towing company based on the location of your arrest. You can reach them via the contact information published on the Union County Sheriff's Office.
• Reference your booking number: When you call the Sheriff's Office, provide your booking number (if you have it). This will help them quickly locate your record and provide the correct impound information.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, contact the impound lot to confirm their specific requirements for release. Standard documentation typically includes:

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or a licensed person picking it up for you): You, or the person retrieving the vehicle, must have a valid driver's license. If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot retrieve the vehicle yourself.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is required to ensure the vehicle is released to the rightful owner.
• Proof of insurance: The vehicle must be insured to be legally driven on public roads.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay towing and storage fees. Contact the impound lot beforehand to determine the exact amount and accepted payment methods.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you will need a licensed individual to retrieve the vehicle on your behalf. They will need the following:

• Their valid driver's license
• A signed authorization letter from you: This letter should clearly state that you authorize the individual to retrieve the vehicle on your behalf. Include your name, the individual's name, the vehicle's make and model, and the vehicle identification number (VIN).
• Vehicle title or registration: To prove your ownership and right to authorize someone to pick up the vehicle.

Costs & Fees in Union County

Towing and storage fees can accumulate rapidly, making prompt action crucial. While specific rates vary by towing company, understand the general cost structure.

Typical towing fees in South Carolina range from $150 to $300, but these are estimates only. Daily storage fees typically range from $25 to $50 per day.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily. Contact the specific impound lot holding your vehicle immediately to confirm their exact rates and payment policies.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Many accept cash, credit cards, and money orders, but policies vary. Knowing this in advance prevents delays and potential complications upon arrival.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when retrieving your vehicle.

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every passing day increases the financial burden.

After 30 Days

Under South Carolina law, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover outstanding fees. Avoid this scenario by acting promptly.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Financial constraints can make retrieving your vehicle challenging. Explore these options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Seek assistance from loved ones to help cover the towing and storage 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. Inquire about this possibility, but be aware that interest or additional fees may apply.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: A DUI attorney may be able to negotiate fees with the impound lot or challenge the legality of the impoundment in certain circumstances.

After Retrieval

Before leaving the impound lot, carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while in their care.

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle's exterior and interior.
• Document any damage with photos: Take detailed photographs of any scratches, dents, or other damage you find.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Immediately notify the impound lot manager of any damage and obtain a written acknowledgement of your report. This documentation is crucial if you need to file a claim for damages later.

By following these steps, you can navigate the vehicle retrieval process efficiently and minimize the financial impact of a DUI arrest in Union County.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does the Union County Detention Center hold bond hearings after a DUI arrest? Bond hearings are held twice daily at the Union County Magistrate Court. If arrested late in the day, you may have to wait until the next morning for a hearing.
2. Can I speak with the person arrested for DUI at the Union County Detention Center to arrange bail? Communication is done through CIDNET, a digital communication system. You need to create and fund an account to communicate with an inmate.
3. Where do I go for DUI court in Union County? Misdemeanor DUI cases are heard at the Union County Magistrate Court located at 210 West Main Street, Union, SC 29379.