Cumberland County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Cumberland

Being arrested for DUI in Cumberland, Tennessee is a stressful experience. On top of the legal challenges you're facing, you're likely also wondering what happens to your vehicle. Often, after a DUI arrest, your car is impounded. This guide provides immediate, practical steps to help you retrieve your vehicle as quickly and affordably as possible. We understand this is a difficult time, and we're here to help you navigate the process.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Cumberland, your vehicle is typically impounded for several reasons:

• Safety: To prevent you from driving under the influence again immediately after your release.
• Evidence: In some cases, your vehicle might be held as evidence, especially if there was an accident.
• Liability: The impound lot assumes responsibility for the vehicle's safety and security.

Understanding why your car was impounded is the first step in getting it back. The sooner you act, the better, as storage fees can quickly add up.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding your car is the first and most crucial step. Time is of the essence to minimize storage fees.

Official Impound Lots in Cumberland

Unfortunately, we don't yet have specific impound lot data for Cumberland in our database. However, most jurisdictions use specific towing companies or have designated impound lots. We will update this section as soon as we have that information.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Here's how to track down your car:

• Call Cumberland Police/Sheriff: This is your first call. Contact them at the non-emergency number. Ask where your vehicle was towed. They should have this information readily available.
• Reference your case number: When you call, be sure to have your DUI case number or arrest information ready. This helps them locate your vehicle quickly.
• Most vehicles towed within 24 hours of arrest: The towing usually occurs within 24 hours of your arrest. Don't delay; start your search immediately.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your vehicle is impounded, gather the necessary documents for retrieval.

Required Documents

You'll generally need the following:

• Valid driver's license (or someone with valid license): The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid, unexpired driver's license.
• Vehicle registration: Proof that the vehicle is registered.
• Proof of insurance: Current insurance documentation for the vehicle.
• Cash or credit card for fees: Be prepared to pay the impound and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or revoked due to the DUI arrest, you cannot retrieve the vehicle yourself. Here are your options:

• Have someone else pick it up: A friend or family member with a valid license can retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, written authorization from you allowing them to pick up the vehicle, and the vehicle title or registration to prove ownership (or your right to authorize release).

Costs & Fees in Cumberland

Understanding the costs involved is critical to planning your retrieval strategy. Remember, these fees accumulate daily, so acting quickly is vital.

Typical Fees

While we don't have specific fee data for Cumberland impound lots yet, expect the following types of charges:

• Towing fee: Estimate $150 - $300
• Daily storage: Estimate $20 - $50 per day
• Administrative fees: Estimate $[25-$75]
• Release fee: Estimate $[50-$100]

IMPORTANT: These are estimates. The actual fees will depend on the towing company and their policies. Contact the impound lot directly for exact figures.

Payment Methods

[This section will be updated with payment methods accepted by Cumberland impound lots as soon as we have that data. Expect to be able to use cash, and potentially credit cards. Some lots may also accept debit cards or money orders.]

Timeline

Understanding the timeline is crucial to avoid additional expenses and potential loss of your vehicle.

Within 24 Hours

Retrieve your car as soon as possible after your arrest. The sooner you get it, the less you'll pay in daily storage fees.

After 30 Days

If your vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot may have the legal right to sell it at a lien sale to recover their costs. Don't let this happen!

If You Can't Afford the Fees

We understand that being arrested for DUI can create a significant financial strain. Here are some potential options if you're struggling to afford the impound fees:

Options

• Borrow from family/friends: This is often the quickest and easiest solution.
• Payment plans (some lots offer this): Ask the impound lot if they offer a payment plan. Some 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 title of your vehicle over to the impound lot to cover the fees. This will prevent you from incurring further debt but will result in you losing your car.

What NOT to Do

• Don't wait - fees add up fast: Procrastination will only increase your financial burden.
• Don't abandon the vehicle: Abandoning the vehicle can lead to further legal complications and penalties.

Special Situations

Certain circumstances require special attention when retrieving your vehicle.

If Your Car Was Evidence

If the police are holding your car as evidence in your DUI case, you'll need a release authorization from the Cumberland Police Department or the Cumberland County District Attorney's office before the impound lot will release it. Contact your attorney for assistance in obtaining this authorization.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

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

After Retrieval

Once you've retrieved your vehicle, take the following steps:

Check Your Vehicle

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

Document any damage immediately

Take detailed photos and notes of any dents, scratches, or other damage.

Report damage to impound lot manager

Immediately report any damage to the impound lot manager and file a written claim. Keep a copy of the claim for your records.

Cumberland Impound Lot Locations

[This section will be populated with a detailed list of impound lot locations in Cumberland, TN, including addresses, phone numbers, hours of operation, and map references, as soon as we have that data. Check back soon for updates.]

We hope this guide has been helpful. Remember to act quickly and communicate effectively with the Cumberland Police Department and the impound lot to retrieve your vehicle as smoothly as possible. Good luck.