Lewis County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Lewis County

Being arrested for DUI in Lewis County, Tennessee, can be a stressful and confusing experience. On top of the legal ramifications, you're likely wondering what happened to your vehicle. Typically, after a DUI arrest, your car is impounded. This guide provides immediate, practical advice on how to retrieve your vehicle as quickly and efficiently as possible in Lewis County.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Tennessee, law enforcement will often impound your vehicle for several reasons:

• Public Safety: Removing a potentially impaired driver from the road and preventing them from driving again immediately.
• Evidence: The vehicle may be considered evidence in your DUI case, especially if it was involved in an accident.
• Standard Procedure: It's a common procedure following a DUI arrest to ensure the safety of the public and the vehicle.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is figuring out where your car is being held. In Lewis County, vehicles are typically towed to designated impound lots. Here are some local impound lot options:

• Libby's Auto And Diesel Towing Inc: 9122 Lewisburg Hwy, Cornersville, TN 37047. Phone: (800) 231-7455.
• Marty's Recovery: 200 Mill Ave, Hohenwald, TN 38462. Phone: (931) 295-3311.

How to Find Your Vehicle

If you're unsure which lot your vehicle was towed to, here's how to locate it:

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The officer who arrested you should have provided paperwork indicating the towing company and impound lot where your vehicle was taken.
• Call the Lewis County Sheriff's Office: Contact the Lewis County Sheriff's Office at (931) 796-5096. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and the date of your arrest. They should be able to tell you where your vehicle was towed.
• Reference Your Booking Number: When you call the Sheriff's Office or an impound lot, have your booking number ready. This will help them quickly locate the information about your vehicle.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Gathering the necessary documents is crucial for a smooth retrieval process.

Required Documents

You'll generally need the following documents to retrieve your vehicle:

• Valid Driver's License (or someone with a valid license): You, or the person retrieving the vehicle, must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle Registration or Title: Proof that you own the vehicle.
• Proof of Insurance: Current insurance documentation for the vehicle.
• Payment for Fees: Impound lots typically accept cash or credit cards (check with the specific lot to confirm).

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you'll need to arrange for someone else to pick up the vehicle. They will need:

• Their own valid driver's license.
• Authorization from you: A signed letter authorizing them to retrieve your vehicle on your behalf.
• Vehicle Title/Registration: Proof that you own the vehicle.

Costs & Fees in Lewis County

Understanding the costs involved is essential to avoid surprises. Unfortunately, data on specific daily storage fees is not available at this time.

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

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods (cash, credit card, money order, etc.).

Timeline

Time is of the essence when retrieving your vehicle.

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day costs more money. Contact the impound lot as soon as possible to determine the exact fees and arrange for pickup.

After 30 Days

Most states, including Tennessee, allow the impound lot to initiate a lien sale if the vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days). Do not let it reach this point. You will lose your vehicle and potentially face additional costs.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Facing a DUI arrest often comes with unexpected financial burdens. If you're struggling to afford the impound fees, here are some options:

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Ask for assistance from loved ones.
• Ask About a Payment Plan: Some impound lots may offer payment plans. Inquire about this possibility.
• Consult with Your Attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate or challenge the fees.

After Retrieval

Once you have your vehicle back, take these steps:

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately: Before leaving the lot, thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document Any Damage with Photos: Note any scratches, dents, or other damage. Take clear photos of the damage as evidence.
• Report Damage to the Lot Manager in Writing: Report the damage to the impound lot manager immediately and file a written complaint before you drive away.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does the impound lot have to hold my vehicle? Typically, the impound lot will hold your vehicle for 30 days before initiating a lien sale. Contact the specific lot for their exact policy.
• Can I get my personal belongings out of the car before retrieving it? Yes, you should be allowed to retrieve your personal belongings from the vehicle. Contact the impound lot to arrange a time to do so. You will likely need to provide proof of ownership (registration or title).
• What happens if I abandon my vehicle at the impound lot? Abandoning your vehicle can lead to further legal complications, fines, and a negative impact on your credit score. It's always best to retrieve your vehicle or make arrangements with the impound lot.