Warren County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Warren County

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

Following a DUI arrest in Warren County, Tennessee, one of your immediate concerns is likely, "Where is my car?" Vehicles are typically impounded after a DUI arrest for several reasons: as evidence, for public safety (to prevent further impaired driving), or because the driver is unable to legally operate the vehicle. Understanding the impound process and how to retrieve your vehicle is essential to minimize costs and inconvenience.

Where Is Your Car?

Your vehicle was likely towed to one of the impound lots in Warren County. Here are a few possibilities:

• D. Wagner Towing LLC: 35 Marks Lane, Spencer, TN 38585. Phone: (931) 946-8795
• Lassiter's Towing: 2398 Smithville Hwy, McMinnville, TN 37110. Phone: (931) 668-4647
• Jeff’s Towing & Truck Repair, LLC: 3135 Sparta St, McMinnville, TN 37110. Phone: (931) 668-9236
• Lil Hobbs Towing & Roadside Assistance LLC: 390 McReynolds Rd, McMinnville, TN 37110. Phone: (931) 259-5182
• Hobbs: 107 W Shellsford Rd, McMinnville, TN 37110. Phone: (931) 247-5595

How to Find Your Vehicle

If you're unsure where your car was towed, here are a few ways to locate it:

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with paperwork indicating the name of the towing company and its contact information.
• Call the Warren County Sheriff's Department: Contact the Warren County Sheriffs Department at 108 Security Cir, McMinnville, TN 37110 or call (931) 473-7863. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and date of arrest. Referencing your booking number will also help them locate your vehicle information quickly.
• Reference Your Booking Number: Your booking number is a unique identifier assigned to you during the booking process at the jail. It helps law enforcement quickly access your records and vehicle information.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

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

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license. If your license is suspended, see the section below.
• Vehicle Registration or Title: Proof of ownership is essential. Bring either the vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of Insurance: You'll need to demonstrate that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay the towing and storage fees. Contact the impound lot in advance to determine acceptable payment methods.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot legally drive the vehicle yourself. Here are your options:

• Have a Licensed Friend or Family Member Retrieve It: The easiest solution is to have a licensed friend or family member retrieve the vehicle for you.
• They Need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you (stating they have permission to pick up the vehicle on your behalf), and the vehicle title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Warren County

Retrieving your vehicle involves paying towing and storage fees, which can quickly add up.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily, so it's crucial to act quickly to minimize costs. Contact the specific impound lot for their daily storage rate, as this information is not available in the current data.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Most impound lots accept cash, but it's best to verify whether they also accept credit cards or money orders.

Timeline

Act Immediately

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

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. This means they can sell your vehicle to the highest bidder. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider these options:

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Ask if they can help cover the costs.
• Ask the Impound Lot About a Payment Plan: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. It's worth asking if this is an option.
• Consult with Your Attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate the fees or challenge their validity.

After Retrieval

Before driving away with your vehicle, take these important steps:

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately: Carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document Any Damage with Photos: Take photos of any damage as evidence.
• Report Any Damage to the Lot Manager in Writing Before You Drive Away: Immediately report any damage to the impound lot manager and file a written complaint. This is crucial for pursuing any claims for damages.

Getting your car back after a DUI arrest in Warren County requires prompt action and careful attention to detail. By following these steps, you can navigate the process efficiently and minimize unnecessary expenses. Remember to consult with a DUI attorney to understand your legal rights and options.

Frequently Asked Questions

1How long does the Warren County Sheriff's Department hold vehicles after a DUI arrest?

The Warren County Sheriffs Department does not typically hold vehicles unless it is being used as evidence. The vehicle is generally towed to a private impound lot. Contact the Warren County Sheriffs Department at (931) 473-7863 to confirm.

2Can someone else pick up my car for me in Warren County if my license is suspended due to a DUI?

Yes, someone with a valid driver's license can pick up your car for you. They will need to provide their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you, and the vehicle's title or registration.

3What happens if I abandon my vehicle at the impound lot in Warren County after a DUI arrest?

If you abandon your vehicle at the impound lot, the lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs after a certain period (typically 30 days). You could also face additional legal consequences.