Maury County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Maury County

Being arrested for DUI in Maury County can be a stressful experience, and one of the immediate concerns is often: what happens to my car? Vehicles are typically impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons, including public safety and to prevent the driver from continuing to operate the vehicle while intoxicated. Understanding the process of retrieving your vehicle can help minimize additional costs and stress during this challenging time.

Where Is Your Car?

After a DUI arrest in Maury County, your vehicle is likely taken to one of the approved impound lots contracted by law enforcement. Here are two potential locations:

• D&D Towing & Recovery LLC: 2643 Leah Drive, Columbia, TN.
• Die-Hard Towing & Recovery: 122 Dyer St, Columbia, TN.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Locating your vehicle quickly is crucial to minimize storage fees. Here are a few ways to determine where your car is impounded:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating the name of the towing company and potentially their contact information.
• Call the Columbia Police Dept: You can contact the Columbia Police Department at 931-388-2727 to inquire about the location of your vehicle. Have your booking number or name available to help them locate the information.
• Reference your booking number: Your booking number from the Maury County Jail (931-380-5733) can also help them locate the towing information.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, you'll need to gather the necessary documents to retrieve it.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or a licensed person picking it up for you): If your license was seized due to the DUI arrest, you'll need someone with a valid license to retrieve the vehicle.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is essential.
• Proof of insurance: Current insurance documentation 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 or revoked, you'll need to arrange for someone else to pick up the vehicle. They will need:

• Their valid driver's license.
• A signed authorization letter from you: This letter should clearly state that you authorize them to retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.
• Vehicle title or registration: To prove ownership.

Costs & Fees in Maury County

Understanding the costs involved in retrieving your vehicle is essential for budgeting and planning. The City of Columbia regulates towing fees for non-consensual tows initiated by the Columbia Police Department (CPD).

• Towing Base Rate: The maximum charge for a standard wrecker service is capped at $125.00 for parking violations or abandonment, which often serves as the baseline for arrest-related impounds. If the vehicle was involved in an accident requiring complex recovery (e.g., winching from a ditch), higher rates may apply, often capped at $160.00.
• Storage Fees: Storage charges are capped at $25.00 per day, accruing after the first 24 hours.

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

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. While state regulations increasingly mandate acceptance of major credit cards, it's best to verify whether they accept cash, credit cards, or money orders.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing 24 hours after your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the total cost. As stated in the research, successful navigation of a DUI requires immediate action on securing the vehicle from impound to minimize daily storage fees.

After 30 Days

If a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period, the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This typically occurs after 30 days. To avoid losing your vehicle, act promptly.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

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

• Contact a family member or friend: Seek assistance from loved ones to help cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans or installment options.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: In some cases, a DUI attorney may be able to negotiate fees or challenge the validity of certain charges.

After Retrieval

Once you've paid the fees and obtained the necessary paperwork, carefully inspect your vehicle before removing it from the lot.

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Look for any signs of damage that may have occurred while the vehicle was in the impound lot's possession.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photos of any dents, scratches, or other damage.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Notify the impound lot manager of any damage in writing before leaving the premises. This will help protect your rights in case you need to file a claim for damages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to request a hearing with the Tennessee Department of Safety to challenge my license suspension? A: You have only 10 days from the date of your DUI arrest to request an administrative hearing. The request must be submitted in writing to the Tennessee Department of Safety, Driver Services Division, PO Box 945, Nashville, TN 37202.

Q: Where is the local Driver Services Center located in Maury County? A: The Driver Services Center is located at 1701 Hampshire Pike, Columbia, TN 38401. Keep in mind that the facility has been subject to intermittent closures for renovations.

Q: Where will my court hearing be held? A: As of mid-October 2024, all General Sessions and Circuit Court dockets are heard at the Maury County Justice Center, located at 1115 South Main Street, Columbia, TN 38401.