Williamson County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Williamson County

After a DUI arrest in Williamson County, one of the first practical problems you'll face is retrieving your vehicle. When you're arrested for DUI, your vehicle is usually impounded. This is because the vehicle is legally considered "unattended" or a hazard since you are unable to drive it. Understanding the process for getting your car back, the associated costs, and the timeline is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications. The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) outsources towing to private towing operators through a strict Wrecker Rotation List.

Where Is Your Car?

Your vehicle was likely towed by a company on the Williamson County rotation list and taken to their impound lot. Here are a couple of local companies that may have your vehicle:

• A-Plus Towing & Recovery LLC: 316 Eddy Ct, Franklin, TN 37064
• STR Towing & Recovery: 128 Holiday Ct #113, Franklin, TN 37067

How to Find Your Vehicle

Several resources can help you locate your vehicle:

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating which towing company impounded your vehicle. This is often the quickest way to find it.
• Call the Williamson County Sheriff's Office: You can contact the WCSO's non-emergency line to inquire about the location of your vehicle. Have your booking number ready.
• Reference Your Booking Number: This number will help the Sheriff's Office locate your records and provide information about the tow.
• AutoReturn System: Williamson County integrates the AutoReturn (now transitioning to the brand Autura) system. This digital platform serves as the central nervous system for tow management for the Sheriff's Office.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, make sure you have all the necessary documents to avoid any delays or issues.

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a currently valid driver's license.
• Vehicle Registration or Title: Proof of ownership is essential. Bring either the vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of Insurance: You must demonstrate that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay the impound and storage fees. Contact the lot in advance 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. In this case:

• Have a Licensed Friend or Family Member Retrieve It: Ask someone with a valid license to pick up the vehicle for you.
• They Need:
• Their valid driver's license.
• A signed authorization letter from you, granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle.
• The vehicle title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Williamson County

Impound fees can add up quickly, so understanding the costs is essential.

• Daily Storage Rate: Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods (cash, credit card, money order).

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day costs more money. Williamson County’s wealth creates a bifurcated justice system. If you are unable to pay the towing fee, that leads to daily storage charges. Within two weeks, the fees may exceed the value of an older car, leading to forfeiture.

After 30 Days

Most states allow the lot to initiate a lien sale if the vehicle is unclaimed. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're struggling to afford the impound fees:

• 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 to help you manage the expenses.
• Consult with Your Attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate or challenge the fees.

After Retrieval

Before leaving the impound lot:

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately: Carefully check for any damage that may have occurred while the vehicle was in the lot.
• Document Any Damage with Photos: Take detailed photos of any damage as evidence.
• Report Any Damage to the Lot Manager in Writing Before You Drive Away: Ensure you have written documentation of the damage reported to the lot manager before removing the vehicle from the premises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to get my car out of impound in Williamson County before it's sold? A: Generally, the impound lot can begin the process of selling your vehicle after about 30 days if it remains unclaimed. Contact the specific lot holding your vehicle to confirm their exact policy.

Q: Can I get my belongings out of the car before I have the money to pay the impound fees? A: Some impound lots may allow you to retrieve personal belongings from the vehicle. However, this is at their discretion. Contact the specific impound lot to inquire about their policy.

Q: What happens if I can't afford to get my car out of impound? A: If you cannot afford the fees, the impound lot will eventually sell the vehicle to recoup their costs. You might want to explore options like borrowing money or consulting with an attorney to see if there are any legal avenues to reduce the fees.