Cumberland County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Cumberland County

After a DUI arrest in Cumberland County, Tennessee, one of the first logistical hurdles you'll face is retrieving your vehicle. Tennessee law allows law enforcement to impound vehicles when the driver is arrested. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to locating, claiming, and recovering your impounded vehicle as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Where Is Your Car?

Unlike some larger cities, Cumberland County and the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) utilize a "Rotating Schedule Towing List." This means that the arresting officer doesn't choose the impound lot; instead, dispatchers contact approved, private towing companies on a rotating basis. This system can create an initial information gap, as you're likely taken to the Cumberland County Jail without knowing where your car was towed.

How to Find Your Vehicle

The key to finding your vehicle quickly is contacting the right authorities and providing the necessary information.

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have noted the name of the towing company on your paperwork. This is the easiest and fastest way to locate your vehicle.
• Call the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can't find the information on your paperwork, contact the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office non-emergency dispatch. By providing your name and the location where you were arrested, they can cross-reference the arrest report with the dispatch log and identify the towing vendor. The non-emergency number is (931) 484-6176.
• Reference your booking number: Have your booking number ready when you call. This will help the Sheriff's Office quickly locate your record.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Private impound lots in Tennessee operate under strict regulations to protect themselves from liability. You'll need specific documentation to claim your vehicle.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You, or the person retrieving the vehicle, must have a valid, government-issued driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must provide proof of ownership. A current vehicle registration or the vehicle title is acceptable.
• Proof of insurance: You need current proof of insurance for the vehicle.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay towing and storage fees (see "Costs & Fees in Cumberland County" below). Cash is universally accepted, but credit card acceptance varies by operator.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license was confiscated at the time of your DUI arrest (as is common due to implied consent laws), you cannot legally drive the vehicle off the lot yourself.

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: The registered owner must be physically present to authorize the release, but a licensed driver can drive the vehicle off the lot.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you (the registered owner), and the vehicle title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Cumberland County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly. It's crucial to understand the potential costs involved.

Typical towing fees in Tennessee range from $150 to $300, but this can vary depending on the distance towed and the size of the vehicle. Daily storage fees typically range from $30.00 per day. However, these figures are only estimates.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize expenses.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. While cash is generally accepted, credit card policies vary. Knowing this ahead of time will save you potential delays and frustration.

Timeline

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

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day your vehicle remains at the impound lot, the costs increase.

After 30 Days

In Tennessee, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period (often 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This means they can legally sell your vehicle. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're struggling to afford the impound fees, consider these options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance to cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, but this is not guaranteed.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: A DUI attorney in our attorney directory might be able to negotiate or challenge the fees in some cases.

After Retrieval

Before driving away, take these steps:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photos of any damage as evidence.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing: Before leaving the lot, report the damage to the impound lot manager in writing and obtain a copy of the report for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office have to verify ownership of my vehicle if it's suspected to be abandoned?

A: The Sheriff's Office must verify ownership within three business days.

Q: Where is the Cumberland County Jail located?

A: The Cumberland County Jail is located at 90 Justice Center Dr, Crossville, TN 38555.

A: Browse licensed bail bondsmen serving Cumberland County in our bail bond directory.