What Happens to My Car If I Get a DUI?

Those who are pulled over for drunk driving might have a lot of thoughts all clamoring for attention at once. And – among a pretty diverse array of potential concerns, one concern you may very well have is: “what will happen to my car?”

This article aims to provide readers with a better understanding of what to expect as far as your rights and the relevant laws in Tennessee. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the experienced DUI defense attorneys at Fort, Holloway & Rogers for seasoned, expert advice specific to your own circumstances.

If You Have a Valid Driver’s License

If you are stopped for suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) and the police do ultimately charge you, the officer on the scene has discretion in how your vehicle will be handled. If you do have a valid driver’s license with you at the time of the stop, the officer could – potentially – allow for the car to remain safely parked on the side of the road.

If this is how the officer chooses to handle things, you can ask someone you trust to retrieve the car at a future point on your behalf. Or, alternatively, pick it up yourself once you have been released, so long as you have a valid temporary license in place.

It is very important to act quickly when a car is left at the side of the road. If left too long, the failure to retrieve the car could lead to the presumption that the car has been abandoned. This will, likely, lead to the vehicle being towed away.

Short-Term Impoundment

Though leaving your car on the road does leave it potentially accessible to passers-by, it is cheaper than paying for temporary impoundment and is – generally – far more convenient. However, you are not guaranteed a choice in the matter and the police do have the discretion to decide to impound your vehicle.

It is important to understand that Tennessee Police do have some rights as far as access to and potential search of your vehicle when it has been impounded. Contact a DUI defense attorney at Fort, Holloway & Rogers to learn more about what rights you have, what action the police can lawfully take, and what your best steps might be moving forward.

Could I Lose My Car for DUI?

The State of Tennessee takes driving under the influence of alcohol charges very seriously. Indeed, in Tennessee you can lose your car as a result of a DUI in certain cases. The law was designed to be remedial, rather than punitive. And a vehicle can be seized if it was utilized in the commission of a convicted DUI Offense and the offender had been convicted of another DUI offense within the last five years. The law is, in theory, meant to keep irresponsible drivers off the road.

Consult with Fort, Holloway & Rogers

If you have been stopped or your car has been impounded as a result of a DUI charge, the Franklin DUI defense attorneys at Fort, Holloway & Rogers have the legal insight and resources to help you protect your rights. Don’t hesitate to contact our experienced team to gain advice tailored to the specifics of your own unique scenario.

Sources:

nydailynews.com/2024/10/18/jay-cutler-arrested-dui-illegal-gun-possession-tennessee-car-crash/

local3news.com/local-news/new-dui-laws-toughen-penalties-in-tennessee/article_688509aa-2aac-11ef-81fd-1b40a84defe0.html