Perry County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Perry County

**(dui.guide - Your Guide to Navigating DUI Charges in Tennessee)*A DUI arrest in Perry County, Tennessee, brings a cascade of challenges, and one immediate concern is often: what happens to my car? Typically, your vehicle is impounded at the time of your arrest. This guide provides the essential steps to locate, retrieve, and understand the costs associated with getting your car back. Acting quickly is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI in Perry County, the Perry County Sheriff's Department typically arranges for your vehicle to be towed and impounded. This is standard procedure to ensure public safety and prevent the vehicle from being used unlawfully. The impoundment is separate from your criminal case, meaning you must take specific steps to reclaim your vehicle regardless of the outcome of your DUI charge. You are responsible for all towing and storage fees.

Where Is Your Car?

Several towing companies and impound lots serve Perry County. Here are a few possibilities based on available data:

• Perry's Towing & Recovery: 120 Deery St, Shelbyville, TN 37160
• Pearce Truck and Auto LLC: 14982 Hwy 641 S, Holladay, TN 38341

How to Find Your Vehicle

Locating your vehicle quickly is essential to minimize storage fees. Here's how to track it down:

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with paperwork that includes the name of the towing company that impounded your vehicle. This is the fastest way to determine its location.
• Call the Perry County Sheriff's Office: If you can't find the paperwork, contact the Perry County TN Sheriff Department at 582 Bethel Rd, Linden, TN 37096, or call them at (931) 295-0303. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and date of arrest.
• Reference Your Booking Number: Having your booking number ready when contacting the Sheriff's Office can expedite the process.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your car is impounded, gather the necessary documents to claim it.

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 required. Bring your vehicle registration or title.
• Proof of Insurance: You must demonstrate that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay all towing and storage fees in full.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you can still retrieve your vehicle, but you'll need someone with a valid license to do so on your behalf.

• 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.
• They Need:
• Their valid driver's license
• A signed authorization letter from you, granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle. Be sure to notarize this letter.
• The vehicle title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Perry County

Impound fees can add up quickly, so understanding the costs is essential. While specific fees can vary, here's what to expect:

• Towing Fee: The initial towing fee will depend on the distance the vehicle was towed and the towing company's rates.
• Daily Storage Fee: Storage fees accrue daily. Contact the specific impound lot to confirm their daily storage fee. Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible.

Payment

• Call in Advance: Contact the impound lot before you go to retrieve your vehicle to confirm their accepted payment methods. Many accept cash, but some may also accept credit cards or money orders.

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 costs more money. Contact the impound lot as soon as possible to determine the exact fees and arrange for retrieval.

After 30 Days

In Tennessee, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period (typically 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This means they can sell your vehicle to the public. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Facing a DUI can create financial strain, making it difficult to afford impound fees. Here are some options:

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Ask for assistance from a trusted family member or friend to help cover the costs.
• Ask About a Payment Plan: Some impound lots may offer a payment plan, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. It's worth asking, but be aware that interest charges may apply.
• Consult with Your Attorney: In some cases, your DUI attorney may be able to negotiate the impound fees or challenge their validity, especially if there were any irregularities in the impound process.

After Retrieval

Once you've paid the fees and retrieved your vehicle, take these precautions:

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately: Before leaving the impound lot, carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in their custody.
• Document Any Damage: Take photos and videos of any damage you find.
• Report Any Damage in Writing: Immediately report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away. This creates a record of your claim.

Retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Perry County requires prompt action and careful attention to detail. By following these steps, you can minimize expenses and ensure a smooth retrieval process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does the impound lot have to notify me before selling my car? A:

Q: Can I get a temporary permit to drive my car from the impound lot if my license is suspended? A: No. You will need a licensed driver to retrieve the vehicle.

Q: What happens if I abandon my car at the impound lot? A: If you abandon your car, the impound lot will eventually sell it to cover the towing and storage fees. This can negatively impact your credit rating.