Cochise County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Cochise County

Being arrested for DUI in Cochise County, Arizona, is a stressful experience, and dealing with the impoundment of your vehicle adds another layer of complexity. Arizona law, specifically A.R.S. § 28-3511, mandates vehicle impoundment in certain DUI cases, particularly those involving suspended licenses or extreme levels of intoxication. This guide provides immediate, practical steps to help you navigate the process of retrieving your vehicle as quickly and efficiently as possible. Understanding the procedures and acting promptly can minimize storage fees and prevent further complications.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is locating where your vehicle was towed. Vehicles impounded due to a DUI arrest in Cochise County are typically taken to a private towing and storage facility contracted by the arresting law enforcement agency. The exact location isn't always immediately obvious, but here's how to find it.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with paperwork that includes the name and contact information of the towing company that took your vehicle. This is the quickest and most direct way to find your car.
• Call the Cochise County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can't locate the paperwork, contact the Cochise County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) at 520-432-7540. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and date of arrest. They should be able to provide you with the name and phone number of the towing company.
• Reference your booking number: If you have your booking number from the Cochise County Jail, have it ready when you call. This will help the Sheriff's Office locate your records more efficiently.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your vehicle is impounded, you need to gather the necessary documents to retrieve it. Having these ready will streamline the process and prevent unnecessary delays.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must provide proof of ownership, such as the vehicle's registration or title.
• Proof of insurance: You will need to show proof of current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all applicable towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your driver's license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot personally retrieve the vehicle. However, you can authorize someone else to pick it up for you.

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A licensed driver can retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license.
• A signed authorization letter from you, granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle.
• A copy of the vehicle title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Cochise County

Towing and storage fees can quickly add up, so understanding the costs involved is crucial.

Typical towing fees in Arizona range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees typically range from $25 to $50 per day. However, these fees can vary significantly depending on the specific towing company and the circumstances of the impound. Call the specific impound lot holding your vehicle in advance to confirm their exact fees before you go. This will prevent any surprises and allow you to prepare accordingly.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day your vehicle remains at the impound lot. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize these costs.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm which payment methods they accept. Some accept cash only, while others may take credit cards or money orders. Knowing this information beforehand will save you a trip and potential delays.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when it comes to retrieving your impounded vehicle.

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes costs you more money. Begin the retrieval process as soon as possible after your release from custody.

After 30 Days

In Arizona, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot is legally permitted to initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This means they can sell your vehicle to the public. Do not let it reach this point. Contact the impound lot immediately and make arrangements to retrieve your vehicle.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

The costs associated with retrieving an impounded vehicle can be a significant financial burden, especially after a DUI arrest. Here are some options if you are struggling to afford the fees:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask if they can help cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. This is worth exploring if you cannot afford to pay the full amount upfront.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: In some cases, a DUI attorney may be able to negotiate with the towing company or challenge the impound fees.

After Retrieval

Before driving your vehicle off the impound lot, take the following steps:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in the impound lot's possession.
• Document any damage with photos: Take detailed photos of any scratches, dents, or other damage you find.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Inform the impound lot manager of the damage in writing and obtain a copy of the report for your records. This will be crucial if you need to file a claim for damages later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where can I obtain the necessary paperwork to release my vehicle in Cochise County? A: The Cochise County Sheriff's Office processes vehicle releases. Due to conflicting information, it is recommended to obtain paperwork at the Bisbee Headquarters located at 203 N Judd Drive, Bisbee, AZ 85603, Tuesdays and Thursdays ONLY from 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM.

Q: What forms of payment are accepted for the administrative fee at the Cochise County Sheriff's Office to release my vehicle? A: The Cochise County Sheriff’s Office requires CASH ONLY (Exact Change Required) for the $150 administrative fee.

Q: How long do I have to request a hearing if I believe my vehicle was wrongfully impounded in Cochise County? A: If you believe the impoundment is invalid, you must request a "Post-Storage Hearing" within 10 days of the impoundment notice.