Obion County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Obion County

A DUI arrest is stressful enough, but dealing with the impoundment of your vehicle adds another layer of complication. If you've been arrested for DUI in Obion County, Tennessee, and your car was towed, this guide provides immediate, practical information on how to retrieve it. Time is of the essence, as fees accumulate daily.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

Following a DUI arrest in Obion County, your vehicle is typically impounded for a few key reasons:

• Public Safety: To prevent you from driving under the influence again immediately.
• Evidence: The vehicle itself might be considered part of the evidence in your case.
• Standard Procedure: It's standard procedure following a DUI arrest to ensure compliance with the law.

Knowing why your car was impounded is less important than understanding how to get it back. Let's break down the steps.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding out where your vehicle is located is the first crucial step. Here are some impound lots in and around Obion County:

• Krietman's Towing & Recovery: 4044 Killion Rd, Troy, TN 38260
• Alpha Towing & Recovery: 108 N Lindell St, Martin, TN 38237

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The paperwork you received at the time of your arrest should indicate which towing company impounded your vehicle.
• Call the Obion County Sheriff's Office: If you can't find the information on your paperwork, contact the Obion County Sheriff's Office at (731) 885-5832.
• Reference your booking number: Provide them with your name, date of birth, and your booking number. This will help them quickly locate your vehicle.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

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

Required Documents

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

• Valid driver's license (or someone with valid license): The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid, unexpired driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof that the vehicle is registered to you (or to someone who has authorized you to retrieve it).
• Proof of insurance: Current insurance documentation for the vehicle.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay the towing and storage fees. Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods.

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.

• Have someone else pick it up: A friend or family member with a valid license can retrieve the car on your behalf.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license
• A signed authorization letter from you stating they are authorized to pick up the vehicle.
• Vehicle title or registration (to prove ownership or your right to authorize someone else to pick it up).

Costs & Fees in Obion County

Understanding the costs involved is crucial for budgeting and planning.

Expect to pay both towing and daily storage fees. Contact the specific impound lot that has your vehicle for precise amounts. Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible.

Krietman's Towing & Recovery charges a daily storage fee of $N/A. Alpha Towing & Recovery also charges a daily storage fee of $N/A.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm which payment methods they accept. Common methods include cash and credit card.

Timeline

Understanding the timeline is crucial for avoiding further complications.

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day costs more money.

After 30 Days

In Tennessee, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot has the right to sell the vehicle at a lien sale to recover their costs. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

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

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance to help cover costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, but it's not guaranteed.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate or challenge the fees.

After Retrieval

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Before driving away, carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photos of any scratches, dents, or other damage.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Immediately report the damage to the impound lot manager and obtain a written acknowledgment of your report.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to retrieve my car before it's sold? A: In Tennessee, impound lots typically have the right to sell unclaimed vehicles after approximately 30 days to cover their costs. Contact the specific impound lot holding your vehicle for their exact policy.

Q: Can I get a hardship extension to pay the impound fees? A: Hardship extensions are rare, but it's worth contacting the impound lot manager to explain your situation and inquire about payment options. A lawyer can also help negotiate.

Q: What if the police damaged my car during the DUI arrest? A: If you believe the police damaged your car during the arrest, document the damage, obtain a police report, and consult with an attorney about your options for filing a claim.