Unicoi County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Unicoi County

A DUI arrest in Unicoi, Tennessee, can be a stressful and confusing experience. One of the immediate concerns is often: "What happened to my car?" This guide provides practical information on how to retrieve your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Unicoi County, focusing on costs, required documents, and timelines. We understand you're likely feeling overwhelmed, so we'll break down the process step-by-step.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI in Unicoi County, your vehicle is typically impounded. This is standard procedure to prevent further potential offenses and to allow law enforcement to conduct any necessary investigations. Knowing how to get your car back quickly is crucial to minimize storage fees and avoid further complications.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding out where your car is impounded is the first step. Here are some impound lots that may have your vehicle:

• A-Team Towing And Recovery: 2708 N Roan St, Johnson City, TN 37601
• Edwards Towing & Storage: 102 Harris Hollow Rd, Erwin, TN 37650

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The paperwork provided at the time of your arrest should list the towing company that impounded your vehicle.
• Call the Unicoi County Sheriff's Office: Contact the Unicoi County Sheriff’s Dept. at 1570 Jackson Love Hwy, Erwin, TN 37650. Their phone number is (423) 743-1864. They can help you locate your vehicle.
• Reference your booking number: Have your booking number ready when you call to help them quickly locate your vehicle's impound location.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your car is, you need to gather the necessary documents to retrieve 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: You must provide proof of ownership through the vehicle's registration or title.
• Proof of insurance: You'll need to show current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• Payment for fees: Impound lots typically accept cash or major credit cards. Be prepared to pay all applicable fees before the vehicle will be released.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or revoked due to the DUI arrest, you'll need someone else to pick up the vehicle.

• Have someone else pick it up: A friend or family member with a valid driver's license can retrieve the car for you.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license.
• A signed authorization letter from you, giving them permission to retrieve the vehicle.
• The vehicle title or registration (proving ownership).

Costs & Fees in Unicoi County

One of the biggest concerns after a DUI arrest is the cost of retrieving your vehicle. Impound fees can add up quickly, so understanding the typical costs is essential.

Typical Fees

While specific data for daily storage fees at A-Team Towing and Edwards Towing & Storage is not available at this time, storage fees accumulate daily. The longer you wait to retrieve your car, the more expensive it becomes. Act quickly!

Payment

Call the specific impound lot where your vehicle is located to confirm their accepted payment methods. Most accept cash and major credit cards. Some may accept debit cards or offer money orders, but this is not guaranteed.

Timeline

Understanding the timeline is crucial to avoid additional fees and potential loss of your vehicle.

Act Immediately

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

After 30 Days

Most states, including Tennessee, allow the lot to initiate a lien sale if the vehicle is unclaimed after a certain period, typically 30 days. Do not let it reach this point. You could permanently lose your vehicle.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Financial constraints can make retrieving your vehicle challenging, but there are options to explore.

• Contact a family member or friend: Reaching out to loved ones for financial assistance is a common solution.
• Ask about a payment plan: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, allowing you to pay off the fees in installments. Inquire directly with the lot about this possibility.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, a DUI attorney may be able to negotiate or challenge excessive impound fees.

After Retrieval

Once you retrieve your vehicle, take the following steps:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Before leaving the lot, thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage: Take photos or videos of any damage you find.
• Report any damage: Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away. Keep a copy of the written report for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How quickly after a DUI arrest in Unicoi County can I get my car back? A: You can retrieve your vehicle as soon as you have the required documents and can pay the fees. It's best to do this as soon as possible to avoid accruing more storage fees.

Q: Can someone else pick up my car for me if my license is suspended due to a DUI in Unicoi County? A: Yes, a licensed driver can pick up your car for you, provided they have a valid driver's license, your vehicle registration or title, and a signed authorization letter from you.

Q: What happens if I can't afford to get my car out of impound in Unicoi County? A: You can try to borrow money from friends or family, ask the impound lot about a payment plan, or consult with your attorney about negotiating fees. As a last resort, you may have to sign the vehicle over to the impound lot.