Reader’s Question:

A friend of mine was arrested for DUI yesterday in Washington, DC. His vehicle was impounded and he was told that he has to claim it within 72 hours. What happens if he fails to do so and is a vehicle impoundment also part of the penalties if he will be convicted?

Gail

Washington, DC

Since your friend’s vehicle was impounded because of his DUI arrest in Washington, DC, he will be subject to an impoundment charge of $50 which shall be paid prior to the release of the vehicle. If he fails to claim it within 72 hours, the vehicle shall be processed and handled as an abandoned vehicle, and shall be subject to any other charges and costs, including storage fees and relocation costs, as are otherwise provided and assessed by the Mayor.

He could lose his vehicle if the the judge rules to have his vehicle impounded if he will be convicted for DUI. Once he’s able to claim his vehicle, he must pay storage fees, an administrative fee plus any towing fees. It can cost him in excess of $1,000 to have his vehicle impounded. Research has actually shown that many vehicles are left abandoned because it would cost more to regain ownership of the vehicle than the vehicle is even worth. The locality must then pay the storage fees and towing bills when the vehicle is left behind.

Tags: drunk driving laws, DUI, DUI advice, DUI lawyer