Union County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Union

A DUI arrest in Union, Tennessee is a stressful experience. On top of dealing with the legal repercussions, you're likely facing the immediate problem of getting your car back. This guide provides practical information on vehicle impoundment and retrieval after a DUI arrest in Union, TN. We understand this is a challenging time, and our goal is to help you navigate the process as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you are arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Tennessee, the arresting officer typically has your vehicle impounded. This is standard procedure for several reasons:

• Public Safety: To prevent you from driving under the influence again immediately.
• Evidence Preservation: The vehicle might contain evidence related to your DUI charge.
• Liability: The arresting agency wants to avoid liability for the vehicle being left unattended.

Understanding why your car was impounded is the first step in getting it back. The clock is ticking, as storage fees accumulate daily.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding where your car is impounded is crucial. Don't delay – the sooner you locate it, the less you'll pay in storage fees.

Official Impound Lots in Union

Unfortunately, we don't have a specific list of official impound lots in Union County at this time. However, we are constantly updating our database. In the meantime, follow the instructions below to locate your vehicle.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Call Union Police/Sheriff: The quickest way to find your car is to contact the Union County law enforcement agency that arrested you. Obtain their phone number from online or from your release paperwork.
• Union County Sheriff's Office:
• Reference your case number: When you call, provide your name, date of birth, and, most importantly, your case number (if you have it). This will help them quickly locate your vehicle.
• Most vehicles towed within 24 hours of arrest: Your car is usually towed to an impound lot within 24 hours of your arrest. Don't wait longer than a day to start looking.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, gather the necessary documents to avoid unnecessary trips.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or someone with a valid license): You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration: Proof that the vehicle is registered.
• Proof of insurance: Current insurance documentation for the vehicle.
• Cash or credit card for fees: Impound lots typically accept cash or credit cards. Call ahead to confirm accepted payment methods.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot retrieve the vehicle yourself. You have two options:

• Have someone else pick it up: A licensed driver can retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license
• A signed authorization letter from you allowing them to pick up the vehicle
• The vehicle title or registration proving ownership.

Costs & Fees in Union

Understanding the costs involved is essential for budgeting and planning. These fees can add up quickly, so prompt action is crucial.

Typical Fees

• Towing fee: Expect this to be in the range of $150-$300.
• Daily storage: This is a significant cost. Daily storage fees typically range from $20-$50 per day.
• Administrative fees: These can vary, potentially from $25-$75.
• Release fee: A one-time fee for releasing the vehicle, usually around $50-$100.

IMPORTANT: These fees accumulate daily. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes to retrieve your vehicle.

Payment Methods

[Until impound lot data is available, provide general information] Most impound lots in Tennessee accept cash and major credit cards. Some might accept debit cards, but it's always best to call ahead and confirm their accepted payment methods.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when dealing with vehicle impoundment.

Within 24 Hours

Aim to retrieve your vehicle within 24 hours of the impound. This will minimize the daily storage fees.

After 30 Days

If your vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot has the right to sell it at a lien sale to recover their costs. You do not want this to happen.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Facing a DUI arrest can strain your finances. If you're struggling to afford the impound fees, consider these options:

Options

• Borrow from family/friends: This is often the quickest and easiest solution.
• Payment plans (some lots offer this): Some impound lots might offer payment plans. Inquire about this option, but be aware of potential interest charges.
• Sign the vehicle over to the impound lot (avoid debt but lose the car): As a last resort, you can sign over the title of the vehicle to the impound lot. This will relieve you of the debt, but you will lose ownership of the car.

What NOT to Do

• Don't wait: Fees add up exponentially. Procrastination will only make the situation worse.
• Don't abandon the vehicle: Abandoning the vehicle can lead to further legal trouble and additional fines.

Special Situations

Certain situations require extra attention:

If Your Car Was Evidence

If the police are holding your car as evidence in your DUI case, you'll need a release authorization from the investigating officer or the court before the impound lot will release it. Contact your attorney to obtain this authorization.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

If the vehicle is registered in someone else's name (e.g., a family member), the registered owner has the right to retrieve the vehicle, regardless of your DUI arrest. They will need to provide proof of ownership (vehicle title or registration) and their valid driver's license.

After Retrieval

Once you retrieve your vehicle, take these steps:

Check Your Vehicle

Thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.

Document Any Damage Immediately

Take photos of any scratches, dents, or other damage.

Report Damage to Impound Lot Manager

Report the damage to the impound lot manager immediately and obtain a written acknowledgement of your report. This will be crucial if you need to file a claim for damages.

Union Impound Lot Locations

[This section would ideally list all known impound lots in Union County with addresses, phone numbers, and hours of operation. Since this data is unavailable, provide placeholder text and instructions for the user.]

Unfortunately, we do not currently have a complete list of impound lot locations in Union County. Please contact the Union County Sheriff's Office or the Union Police Department for information on where your vehicle was towed. We are working to gather this information and will update this guide as soon as possible.

Remember, acting quickly is vital to minimizing costs and resolving the situation. Good luck!