Sevier County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Sevier County

Being arrested for a DUI in Sevier County is a stressful experience. On top of navigating the legal process, you also need to deal with the practical matter of retrieving your vehicle, which is likely impounded. This guide provides immediate, practical information on how to get your car back and minimize impound costs. We understand this is a difficult situation, and we're here to help you through the process.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

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

• Public Safety: Impoundment prevents you from driving under the influence again immediately after your arrest.
• Evidence Preservation: In some cases, the vehicle itself might be considered evidence related to your DUI charge.

Knowing why your car was impounded is the first step to understanding the retrieval process.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding your car quickly is essential to minimize storage fees, which accrue daily. Here are the known impound lots operating in Sevier County:

• Southern Pride Towing: 606 Old Knoxville Hwy, Sevierville, TN 37862.
• Stooksbury's Towing: 701 W Main St, Sevierville, TN 37862.

How to Find Your Vehicle

If you're unsure where your vehicle was towed, here's how to locate it:

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The paperwork you received at the time of your arrest should indicate which towing company impounded your vehicle. Look for the tow company name and contact information on the citation or booking documents.
• Call the Sevier County Sheriff's Office: Contact the Sevier County Sheriff's Office at (865) 453-4668. Provide your name and booking number (if you have it) to help them locate your vehicle.
• Reference Your Booking Number: This number is assigned when you are booked into jail and helps identify your case.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Preparing the necessary documents will streamline the retrieval process and prevent unnecessary delays.

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License (or Someone with a Valid License): You, or the person retrieving the vehicle on your behalf, must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle Registration or Title: You need proof of ownership, such as the vehicle registration or title.
• Proof of Insurance: You need to show proof that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for Fees: You will need to pay the impound 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 Pick It Up: A friend or family member with a valid driver's license can retrieve the vehicle for you.
• They Need:
• Their valid driver's license
• A signed authorization letter from you, giving them permission to pick up the vehicle.
• Vehicle title or registration in your name, as proof of ownership.

Costs & Fees in Sevier County

Understanding the costs involved is crucial for planning. Impound fees can add up very quickly.

• Daily storage: Varies by impound lot.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate daily, starting the moment your vehicle is towed. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes to retrieve your car. Prioritize getting your vehicle back as soon as possible.

Payment

Contact the specific impound lot before going to pick up your vehicle to confirm which payment methods they accept. Some lots accept cash only, while others may take credit cards or money orders.

Timeline

Acting quickly can save you significant money.

Act Immediately

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

After 30 Days

In many states, if a vehicle is not retrieved within a certain period (often 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

We understand that impound fees can be a significant financial burden. Here are some options:

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Reaching out to loved ones for assistance can be a viable solution.
• Ask the Impound Lot About a Payment Plan: Some impound lots may offer payment plans. It's always worth asking.
• Consult with Your Attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate or challenge the fees.

After Retrieval

After retrieving your vehicle, take the following steps:

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately: Before leaving the lot, carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document Any Damage with Photos: Take detailed photos of any damage as evidence.
• Report Any Damage to the Lot Manager in Writing: Immediately report any damage to the impound lot manager and request a written record of your report before you drive away.

We hope this guide has provided you with the information you need to retrieve your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Sevier County. Remember to act quickly to minimize costs. If you have further questions or need legal assistance regarding your DUI charge, consult with a qualified attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does Southern Pride Towing hold vehicles before auctioning them off? A: Contact Southern Pride Towing directly for their specific policy. Generally, Tennessee law allows impound lots to initiate a lien sale after a certain period, typically around 30 days of unclaimed storage.

Q: What happens if I can't afford to get my car out of Stooksbury's Towing in Sevierville? A: Contact Stooksbury's Towing to discuss payment options or potential arrangements. If you cannot afford the fees and do not make arrangements, the vehicle may eventually be sold at auction to cover the costs.

Q: Can I get a restricted license to drive only to work and to pick up my car from the impound lot after a DUI in Sevier County? A: Tennessee law may allow for a restricted license under certain conditions after a DUI arrest. Consult with a DUI attorney to determine your eligibility and navigate the application process with the Tennessee DMV.