York County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in York County

After a DUI arrest in York County, South Carolina, one of your first concerns is likely getting your vehicle back. Your car is typically impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons: as evidence, for public safety, or because you were unable to legally drive it from the scene. Understanding the process and acting quickly is essential to minimize storage fees and reclaim your vehicle. This guide provides the steps you need to take to retrieve your car as efficiently as possible.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding your vehicle is the first step. York County utilizes a decentralized, rotational wrecker system, meaning the arresting officer calls a private towing company to impound your vehicle. This can sometimes make locating your car a challenge, as there isn't a single, centralized impound lot.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with documentation that includes the name and contact information for the towing company that impounded your vehicle. Look for this information first.
• Call the York County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot locate the paperwork or the information is missing, contact the York County Sheriff's Office at their non-emergency number. They should be able to provide the towing company information based on your arrest details.
• Reference your booking number: When you call the York County Sheriff's Office, have your booking number ready. This will help them quickly locate your records and provide the correct information. You can find information about inmates and booking numbers on the York County Sheriff's Office Inmate Information page.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle at the impound lot, you'll need specific documents to retrieve it. Be prepared to present these items; otherwise, you will be denied access to the vehicle.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must prove ownership of the vehicle. Bring either the vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: You need to show 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 personally retrieve the vehicle. However, there are options:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A licensed individual 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, and the vehicle's title or registration.

Costs & Fees in York County

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

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

Fees vary by lot. It's essential to call the specific impound lot where your vehicle is located to confirm their exact fees before you go.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily. The sooner you retrieve your vehicle, the less you'll pay.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Some lots accept cash only, while others may take credit cards or money orders. Being prepared with the correct form of payment will expedite the retrieval process.

Timeline

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

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the total cost. Contact the towing company as soon as possible to arrange pickup.

After 30 Days

In South Carolina, 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 legally sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding towing and storage fees. Do everything possible to retrieve your vehicle before it reaches this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're facing financial hardship and struggling to pay the towing and storage fees, consider these options:

• Contact a family member or friend to help cover costs: See if someone can lend you the necessary funds.
• 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. It's worth asking, though not all are willing to do this.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: A DUI attorney may be able to negotiate with the impound lot or challenge excessive fees in some cases.

After Retrieval

Once you've paid the fees and are ready to drive away with your vehicle, take these precautions:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take pictures of any dents, scratches, or other damage.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Notify the impound lot manager of any damage in writing before leaving the premises. This creates a record of the damage and can be helpful if you need to file a claim later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where will my DUI case be heard if this is my first offense? A: Your first-offense DUI case will likely be routed to the York County Magistrate - Centralized DUI Court, located at the Moss Justice Center, 1675 York Highway, York, SC 29745. The Clerk's phone number is 803-909-7650.

Q: How quickly after my arrest do I need to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing to challenge my license suspension? A: You have a strict, non-negotiable window of exactly 30 days from the date on your Notice of Suspension to request an ALR hearing. Missing this deadline means you waive your right to contest the suspension.

Q: Where do I enroll in the ADSAP program in York County, and what do I need to bring? A: The designated ADSAP provider for York County is Keystone Substance Abuse Services, located at 199 South Herlong Avenue, Rock Hill, SC 29732. The phone number is 803-324-1800. You must bring a certified 10-year driving record from the SCDMV, a valid photo ID, and a $250 deposit.