Putnam County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Putnam County

After a DUI arrest in Putnam County, Tennessee, one of your most pressing concerns will be retrieving your vehicle. Your car is typically impounded following a DUI arrest for evidentiary reasons, to prevent further offenses, and for public safety. This guide provides the essential steps and information you need to navigate the vehicle retrieval process in Putnam County.

Where Is Your Car?

Unlike some larger cities with a central municipal impound lot, Putnam County operates a decentralized Wrecker Rotation System. This means your vehicle could be at any of several private towing companies contracted by law enforcement. Here are a few examples of operators in the Putnam County jurisdiction:

• Putnam County TN Sheriff's Office Range: Baxter, TN 38544.
• M&W Towing and Recovery: 2455 Fisk Rd, Cookeville, TN 38506. Phone: 931-526-8769.
• Rush Towing, LLC: Cookeville and Smithville. Phone: 931-310-2253.
• Ragland's Towing (Cookeville Towing): Phone: 931-239-2471.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Locating your vehicle quickly is crucial to minimize storage fees. Here's how:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have noted the name of the towing company on your release documents.
• Call the Putnam County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: Call 931-528-8484 and provide your name and date of arrest. They can cross-reference the arrest report with the wrecker dispatch log to determine where your vehicle was towed.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number ready when you call the Sheriff's Office will help expedite the search. You can find inmate information at the Putnam County Jail Inmate Listing.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Be prepared with the necessary documents to avoid delays and additional trips to the impound lot.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must prove ownership of the vehicle. Bring the original registration or title.
• Proof of insurance: The vehicle must be 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 retrieve your vehicle by having someone else do it for you.

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A licensed driver can pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you explicitly granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle, and the vehicle title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Putnam County

Understanding the costs involved is essential for planning your vehicle retrieval. Base tow fees in Tennessee municipal areas for standard vehicles generally hover around $225 for police-initiated tows. Daily storage fees are set by the Tennessee Highway Patrol, but specific daily storage fees are held closely by private operators.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day, starting the moment your vehicle is towed. The longer you wait, the more it will cost.

Payment

Contact the specific impound lot holding your vehicle in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Many accept cash and certified checks, but credit card acceptance varies by the private lot.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Do not delay retrieving your vehicle. Storage fees begin accruing as soon as the vehicle arrives at the impound lot.

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 their costs. Avoid this situation by acting promptly.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are struggling to 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 or allow you to pay in installments.

After Retrieval

Before driving away with your vehicle, take these precautions:

• 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 clear photos of any scratches, dents, 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 you leave the premises. This will help you file a claim if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to get my car out of impound in Putnam County? A: While there's no set deadline, storage fees accrue daily, and after approximately 30 days, the impound lot can begin the process of selling your vehicle to recover costs.

Q: What happens if I can't afford to get my car out of impound in Putnam County?

Q: Where do I go to get my car back if it was impounded after a DUI arrest in Putnam County? A: Your car will be at one of the private towing companies authorized by the Putnam County Sheriff's Office or the Cookeville Police Department. Contact the arresting agency to determine which company has your vehicle.