Marshall County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Marshall County

Being arrested for DUI in Marshall County, Tennessee, is a difficult experience, and one of your immediate concerns is likely getting your vehicle back. Following a DUI arrest, your vehicle is typically impounded to ensure public safety and prevent further potential offenses. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to retrieve your vehicle from impound in Marshall County, including what you need, potential costs, and important timelines to keep in mind.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI, the arresting officer will arrange for your vehicle to be towed to a local impound lot. This is standard procedure under Tennessee law. The impound helps ensure that an impaired driver cannot immediately regain access to the vehicle and continue driving. After the tow, storage fees begin accumulating quickly, so prompt action is essential to minimize expenses.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is locating your vehicle. This information isn't automatically provided, so you'll need to take proactive steps to find out where it was towed. Here's how:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have noted the name and contact information of the towing company on your release paperwork or citation. This is often the quickest way to find your vehicle.
• Call the Marshall County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can't find the information on your paperwork, contact the Marshall County Sheriff's Office at (931) 359-6122. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and date of arrest, and they should be able to tell you where your vehicle was towed.
• Reference your booking number: When you call the Sheriff's Office, having your booking number handy will expedite the process. This number is assigned to you during the booking process at the Marshall County Jail (150 E Church St, Lewisburg, TN 37091).

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, you'll need to gather the necessary documents and prepare for the associated costs.

Required Documents

You (or someone authorized to pick up the vehicle on your behalf) will typically need the following:

• Valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is required. Bring either the vehicle's registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: You'll need to show proof of current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• 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. In this case, you have two options:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: Ask a trusted friend or family member with a valid driver's license to pick up the vehicle for you.
• They need: In addition to their valid driver's license, they will need a signed letter authorizing them to pick up the vehicle on your behalf, as well as the vehicle's title or registration to prove ownership.

Costs & Fees in Marshall County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so it's important to be aware of the potential costs involved.

Typical towing fees in Tennessee range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees typically run between $25 and $50 per day. However, these are just estimates, and fees can vary depending on the specific towing company and impound lot.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day, including weekends and holidays. The longer you wait to retrieve your vehicle, the more expensive it will become.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Most accept cash, but some may also accept credit cards or money orders. It's always best to call ahead to avoid any surprises when you arrive.

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 that passes increases the total cost. Contact the towing company and make arrangements to pick up your vehicle as soon as possible.

After 30 Days

In Tennessee, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot has the right to initiate a lien sale. This means they can sell your vehicle to recover the outstanding towing and storage fees. Do not let it reach this point. The financial consequences of losing your vehicle through a lien sale are far greater than the cost of retrieving it promptly.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, explore the following options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask if they can help you cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot about a payment plan: Some impound lots may be willing to work with you by offering a payment plan. It's worth asking, though it's not guaranteed.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate the fees with the impound lot or challenge them in court.

After Retrieval

Before driving away from the impound lot, take the following precautions:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Carefully examine your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in the impound lot's possession.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photos of any damage you find.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing: Before you leave the lot, report any damage to the impound lot manager in writing. Obtain a copy of the written report for your records. 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 Marshall County and minimize the financial burden. Remember to act quickly, gather the necessary documents, and be prepared to pay the associated fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does the impound lot have to keep my car? A: In Tennessee, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot has the right to initiate a lien sale.

Q: What if I can't find the paperwork from my arrest? A: Contact the Marshall County Sheriff's Office at (931) 359-6122. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and date of arrest, and they should be able to tell you where your vehicle was towed.

Q: Can someone else pick up my car for me? A: Yes, as long as they have a valid driver's license, a signed letter authorizing them to pick up the vehicle on your behalf, as well as the vehicle's title or registration to prove ownership.