When you’re arrested for drunk driving, the police have several options at their disposal.
One of these is to impound your vehicle. But when can they do that?
In this article, we’ll take a look at the law surrounding DUI and car impoundment. We’ll also discuss your rights and how working with an experienced Baton Rouge criminal defense attorney from the Louisiana Criminal Lawyers Law Firm is the best way to ensure that your rights are protected and that any penalties are minimized. We can negotiate with the court to reduce or waive the impoundment fee.
Here’s what you can do if your car is impounded.
Understanding DUI Laws
When it comes to DUIs, there are a lot of things that people don’t understand. One of those is when the police can and cannot impound your car. We’re going to clear that up for you in this article.
In the United States, DUI laws vary from state to state. However, some general principles apply to all states. For example, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. If you are caught driving with a BAC of 0.08% or higher, you can be arrested for DUI.
In addition to having a BAC of 0.08% or higher, other circumstances can lead to a DUI arrest. For example, if you are driving erratically or if you refuse to submit to a breathalyzer test, you can be arrested for DUI.
In most states, the police can impound your car if you are caught driving under the influence. This means that if you are pulled over and arrested for a DUI, your car will be towed and stored at a local impound lot. You will then have to pay to get it out.
If you are convicted of DUI, you will face penalties that can include jail time, fines, and losing your driver’s license. In some states, you may also be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.
There are a few exceptions to this rule. In some states, the police cannot impound your car if you are caught driving with a suspended license. Additionally, the police may not be able to impound your car if you are only driving drunk and not driving impaired.
The Authority To Impound Cars In DUI Cases
If you are arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), the arresting officer has the authority to impound your car. This is a measure that is taken to ensure public safety and prevent drunk drivers from getting behind the wheel.
When your car is impounded, you will need to pay to have it released. The costs of impoundment vary from state to state but typically range from $50 to $200 per day. In some cases, you may also be responsible for towing and storage fees.
If you are arrested for DUI, it is important to contact an attorney right away. An experienced Baton Rouge criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your rights and advise you on how to proceed.
Consequences Of Impounding Your Car In Baton Rouge
If you are caught driving without insurance in Baton Rouge, your car may be impounded. This means that your car will be towed to a lot and you will have to pay impound fees to get it back. If you do not pay the fees, your car will be auctioned off. Impounding your car can also result in points on your driver’s license.
If your car is impounded in Baton Rouge as part of a DUI case, there are a few consequences you should be aware of.
- You will have to pay to have your car released from impound. The fee is usually $75-$100, but it can be more depending on the length of time your car is held.
- Your car insurance rates may go up, and you may even lose your insurance coverage altogether if your car is impounded for a long period.
- Finally, you may have difficulty getting a loan or financing for a new car if you have a history of impounding.
All of these consequences can be quite costly and can have a major impact on your life, so it is important to avoid having your car impounded if at all possible.
While the consequences of having your car impounded in Baton Rouge can be significant, it is important to remember that it is just one part of the DUI process. If you are facing DUI charges, it is important to consult with an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights.
Your Rights When The Police Impound Your Car
If the police do impound your car, there are a couple of things you should know. First and foremost, you have a right to retrieve it, but only after the impoundment period has ended. That timespan varies from state to state, so make sure you check your local laws. You’ll likely need to pay a fee, which is charged by the tow truck company for the cost of impounding and storing your car.
It’s also important to check if the police have done an inventory check of your vehicle. Make sure this is done in writing so you can prove everything inside was taken out of your car legally. Check with your attorney too to make sure your rights are being respected and that nothing is being taken without permission.
Lastly, be aware that in some states the police may keep your car if they suspect drugs or other criminal activity, or if there’s a warrant out for your arrest. You don’t want to risk having it taken away permanently just because you were unaware of this law!
Working With A Baton Rouge Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are facing criminal charges, you should contact a Baton Rouge criminal defense attorney to help fight your case. An experienced attorney can advise you on the best strategies for avoiding or minimizing penalties and protecting your rights as a defendant.
Your Baton Rouge criminal defense lawyer at the Louisiana Criminal Lawyers Law Firm can also provide legal guidance on other aspects of a DUI case, such as understanding evidence regulations, calculating sentencing guidelines, and preparing defenses against other related charges. We will work with prosecutors to seek lesser punishments (if there is no other option), such as community service or a reduced charge to minimize the consequences of a DUI conviction.
Contact us today to get a free consultation on your case!