Moore County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Moore County

A DUI arrest in Moore County, Tennessee, involves more than just legal proceedings; it often includes the impoundment of your vehicle. Understanding the process for retrieving your car is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to get your vehicle back after a DUI arrest in Moore County.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI in Moore County, your vehicle is typically impounded for several reasons. This is done to ensure public safety, prevent further illegal activity involving the vehicle, and to preserve the vehicle as potential evidence. After the vehicle is towed, it's stored at an impound lot, where it will remain until you (or someone authorized by you) retrieve it, following specific procedures and payment of associated fees.

Where Is Your Car?

Identifying the location of your impounded vehicle is the first step. In Moore County, your car is likely towed to:

• Moore County Sheriff
• Address: 58 Elm St S, Lynchburg, TN 37352
• Phone: (931) 759-7323

How to Find Your Vehicle

If you're unsure where your car was towed, here are a few ways to locate it:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer typically notes the name of the towing company and the impound lot on the paperwork you received at the time of your arrest.
• Call the Moore County Sheriff's Office: Contact the Moore County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line at (931) 759-7323. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and the date of your arrest, and they may be able to provide information on where your vehicle was towed.
• Reference your booking number: This number, assigned during the booking process at the jail, can help the Sheriff's Office quickly locate your vehicle information.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, gather all the necessary documents to ensure a smooth retrieval process.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is essential. Bring either the vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: You must provide proof that the vehicle is currently insured.
• 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 can still have someone else retrieve the vehicle for you. They will need:

• Their valid driver's license: The person retrieving the car must have a valid license.
• A signed authorization letter from you: A letter stating that you authorize them to pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• Vehicle title or registration: To prove ownership.

Costs & Fees in Moore County

Understanding the costs associated with impoundment is crucial. These fees can add up quickly, so prompt action is essential.

The Moore County Sheriff charges a daily storage fee of $N/A.

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

Payment

Call the Moore County Sheriff at (931) 759-7323 in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Typically, impound lots accept cash, and some may accept credit cards or money orders. Confirming this information beforehand can save you a trip.

Timeline

Act Immediately

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

After 30 Days

In Tennessee, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover the outstanding fees. This means they can legally sell your vehicle. Do not let it reach this point. Contact the impound lot as soon as possible to make arrangements for retrieval.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're facing financial difficulties and can't afford the towing and storage fees, consider these options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance in covering the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. This is not always available, but it's worth asking.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate the fees or challenge their validity, particularly if there were issues with the initial impoundment.

After Retrieval

Before driving away with your vehicle, take these important steps:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take photos of any damage you find, as this will serve as evidence if you need to file a claim.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Notify the impound lot manager of any damage in writing before you leave the premises. Obtain a copy of the written report for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to get my car out of impound in Moore County? A: While there isn't a strict deadline, storage fees accrue daily, and after approximately 30 days, the impound lot can begin the process of selling your vehicle to recoup costs.

Q: Can someone else pick up my car for me if my license is suspended due to a DUI in Moore County? A: Yes, but they will need a valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you, and the vehicle's title or registration.

Q: What forms of payment does the Moore County Sheriff accept for impound fees? A: Contact the Moore County Sheriff at (931) 759-7323 to confirm their accepted methods of payment. Typically, they accept cash, and some may accept credit cards or money orders.