Pima County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Pima County

Being arrested for DUI in Pima County, Arizona, is a stressful experience. On top of the legal challenges, you're also likely facing the immediate problem of getting your vehicle back. Arizona law allows for vehicle impoundment following a DUI arrest, adding another layer of complexity and expense. This guide provides practical information on how to locate, retrieve, and handle the associated costs of impoundment in Pima County.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI, the arresting officer will typically arrange for your vehicle to be towed and impounded. This is done for several reasons, including preventing you from driving under the influence again and ensuring the vehicle is safely stored. The impoundment is authorized under Arizona law, specifically A.R.S. § 28-3511, which allows law enforcement to impound a vehicle under certain circumstances, including DUI arrests. Understanding this process is the first step in getting your car back.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is locating your vehicle. The arresting officer should provide you with paperwork indicating where your vehicle was towed. If you don't have this information readily available, don't panic. There are several ways to find out where your car is being held in Pima County.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: This is the most direct way to find out where your vehicle was towed. The tow company's name and contact information should be listed on the documents provided by the arresting officer.
• Call the Pima County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can't find the paperwork or the information is missing, contact the Pima County Sheriff's Office (PCSO) at their non-emergency number: (520) 351-4900. They can help you locate your vehicle if you provide them with your name, date of birth, and date of arrest.
• Reference your booking number: When you were booked into the Pima County Adult Detention Complex (PCADC), you were assigned a booking number. This number can be helpful when contacting the PCSO or the tow company to locate your vehicle. The PCADC is located at 1270 W. Silverlake Road.

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. Be prepared, as impound lots require specific paperwork to release a vehicle.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle on your behalf) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You need to prove ownership of the vehicle. A valid vehicle registration or the vehicle's title will suffice.
• Proof of insurance: You must show proof that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay towing and storage fees. The exact amount will vary depending on the tow company and the length of time the vehicle has been impounded.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your driver's license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot legally drive the vehicle yourself. However, you can still have someone else retrieve it for you.

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: Ask a friend or family member with a valid driver's license to pick up the vehicle.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license.
• A signed authorization letter from you, granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.
• The vehicle title or registration, proving your ownership.

Costs & Fees in Pima County

Impound fees can add up quickly, so it's essential to understand the potential costs involved. Towing and storage fees are set by the individual towing companies.

Typical towing fees in Arizona range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees usually range from $25 to $50 per day. These fees can vary, so it is crucial to call the specific impound lot holding your vehicle to confirm their exact rates before you go.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. The longer your vehicle remains impounded, the more expensive it will be to retrieve it.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm what forms of payment they accept. Most accept cash, and many accept credit cards or money orders. Confirming this beforehand will save you a trip if they don't accept your preferred payment method.

Timeline

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

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Each passing day increases the total cost. Contact the tow company as soon as possible to arrange for retrieval.

After 30 Days

In Arizona, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period (typically 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs, as permitted under Arizona Revised Statute § 28-3514. This means they can sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding fees. Do everything you can to avoid this situation.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, explore these options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask if they can help you cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans to help you manage the expense. It doesn't hurt to ask.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate the fees or challenge their validity.

After Retrieval

Before driving away with your vehicle, take these essential 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 photos of any dents, scratches, or other damage you find.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Notify the impound lot manager of any damage in writing before you leave the premises. This will help you file a claim later if necessary.

Retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Pima County requires prompt action and careful attention to detail. By understanding the process, gathering the necessary documents, and acting quickly, you can minimize the costs and get your car back as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where will my DUI case be heard in Pima County? Your case will be heard at either the Pima County Consolidated Justice Court (for misdemeanors) or the Superior Court of Arizona in Pima County (for felonies).
2. Can I get a public defender in Pima County to help with my DUI case? If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for a public defender. Contact the Tucson City Court Public Defender's Office if your case is in the city court system, or apply for a court-appointed attorney through the Pima County Superior Court.
3. Are there any diversion programs in Pima County that could help me avoid jail time for my DUI? Yes, the Pima County Attorney's Office offers diversion programs, and specialty courts like the Green Valley DUI Court and the CMPS "Compass" Court are available depending on your circumstances.