Cannon County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Cannon County

If you've been arrested for DUI in Cannon County, Tennessee, one of your immediate concerns is likely, "Where's my car?" DUI arrests often result in vehicle impoundment, and understanding the process for getting your car back is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to retrieve your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Cannon County.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

Following a DUI arrest, your vehicle is typically impounded for several reasons. These include ensuring public safety, preventing further illegal activity (driving under the influence), and holding the vehicle as evidence if needed. The arresting officer will arrange for a towing company to transport your car to an impound lot. Knowing what to do next is essential to avoid accumulating storage fees and potentially losing your vehicle.

Where Is Your Car?

Your vehicle may have been towed to one of the following locations:

• Cannon County Sheriff's Office: 110 Alexander Dr, Woodbury, TN 37190
• Gullett's Towing and Recovery: 4304 Old Manchester Hwy, Tullahoma, TN 37388

How to Find Your Vehicle

Locating your vehicle quickly is important. Here's how you can find out where it was towed:

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer should provide you with paperwork that includes the name and contact information of the towing company that impounded your vehicle. This is the first place you should look.
• Call the Cannon County Sheriff's Office: If you can't find the information on your paperwork, contact the Cannon County Sheriff's Office at (615) 563-1000. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and date of arrest, and they should be able to tell you where your vehicle is located.
• Reference Your Booking Number: Having your booking number handy when contacting the Sheriff's Office can help them locate your information more efficiently.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your vehicle is impounded, gather the necessary documents to retrieve it.

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 of ownership, such as 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 applicable towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your driver's license is suspended or revoked, you cannot retrieve the vehicle yourself. Here's what you can do:

• Have a Licensed Friend or Family Member Retrieve It: Ask a friend or family member with a valid driver's license to pick up the vehicle for you.
• They Need:
• Their valid driver's license
• A signed authorization letter from you, granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle on your behalf
• The vehicle's title or registration

Costs & Fees in Cannon County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the costs involved is important.

• Daily Storage Fee at Cannon County Sheriff's Office: N/A
• Daily Storage Fee at Gullett's Towing and Recovery: N/A

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

Payment

Contact the impound lot before you go to retrieve your vehicle to confirm their accepted methods of payment. Some lots accept cash only, while others may accept credit cards or money orders. Knowing this in advance will save you time and potential frustration.

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 your car sits in the impound lot, the fees increase.

After 30 Days

In Tennessee, 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 fees. Do everything you can to avoid reaching 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 assistance from someone who can help cover the costs.
• Ask About a Payment Plan: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. It doesn't hurt to ask.
• Consult with a DUI Attorney: In some cases, a DUI attorney may be able to negotiate the fees or challenge their validity.

After Retrieval

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

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately: Carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document Any Damage with Photos: Take detailed photos of any existing damage.
• Report Any Damage to the Lot Manager in Writing: Immediately report any damage to the impound lot manager before you drive away. Get a written acknowledgment of your report. This documentation will be crucial if you need to file a claim for damages later.

By following these steps, you can navigate the process of retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Cannon County efficiently and minimize potential expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does the Cannon County Sheriff's Office hold impounded vehicles? A: The length of time the Cannon County Sheriff's Office holds impounded vehicles depends on the circumstances of the case. Contact them directly at (615) 563-1000 for information on your specific situation.

Q: Can I get my personal belongings out of the car before I retrieve it? A: You may be able to retrieve essential personal belongings from your vehicle before paying the impound fees. Contact the impound lot to inquire about their specific procedures.

Q: What happens if I don't retrieve my vehicle from Gullett's Towing and Recovery? A: If you don't retrieve your vehicle from Gullett's Towing and Recovery, they may initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This typically happens after 30 days.