Pinal County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Pinal County

Being arrested for DUI in Pinal County can be a disorienting and stressful experience. Beyond the legal ramifications, one of the most immediate concerns is often: what happens to my car? In Arizona, law enforcement officers routinely impound vehicles following a DUI arrest under specific circumstances. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to locate, retrieve, and navigate the costs associated with getting your car back after a DUI arrest in Pinal County. Understanding the process and acting quickly is crucial to minimizing expenses and avoiding further complications.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is determining where your vehicle was towed after your arrest. The arresting officer should provide you with documentation indicating the name and location of the towing company. This information is vital, as your car will be stored at their facility, and you'll need to contact them directly for retrieval.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The most direct way to find your vehicle is to carefully review the paperwork provided by the arresting officer. The name of the towing company and potentially their contact information should be clearly listed.
• Call the Pinal County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot locate the paperwork or the information is missing, contact the Pinal County Sheriff's Office. They can often assist in locating your vehicle based on your name, date of arrest, or vehicle description.
• Reference your booking number: When contacting the Sheriff's Office, providing your booking number will help them quickly locate the necessary information about your vehicle.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, you'll need to gather the necessary documents and prepare for the associated costs. Impound lots have strict requirements, and failing to meet them will result in denial of release and continued storage fees.

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, either through the vehicle's registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: You'll need to demonstrate that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay towing and storage fees, which can accumulate quickly.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot personally retrieve the vehicle. In this case:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A person with a valid driver's license can pick up 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.
• The vehicle's title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Pinal County

Towing and storage fees can quickly add up, making it crucial to act swiftly. Be prepared for these expenses.

Typical towing fees in Arizona range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees typically run between $25 and $50 per day. However, these fees vary by impound lot, so it's essential to call ahead and confirm the exact amounts before heading to the facility.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes to retrieve your vehicle.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Most accept cash, and some take credit cards or money orders. Knowing this information ahead of time prevents delays and ensures a smoother retrieval process.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when it comes to vehicle impoundment.

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the total cost. Contact the impound lot as soon as possible to understand their procedures and arrange for retrieval.

After 30 Days

In Arizona, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period, the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This typically occurs after 30 days. To avoid losing your vehicle permanently, it's crucial to retrieve it well before this deadline.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Facing financial hardship after a DUI arrest is not uncommon. If you're struggling to afford the towing and storage fees:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance in covering the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots offer payment plans to help ease the financial burden.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: In some cases, an attorney can negotiate fees or challenge the validity of the impoundment.

After Retrieval

Before leaving the impound lot, take these important steps:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in the impound lot's care.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photos of any dents, scratches, or other damage.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Immediately notify the impound lot manager of any damage and obtain a written acknowledgment of your report. This documentation is crucial if you need to file a claim for damages later.

By following these steps and acting promptly, you can navigate the vehicle retrieval process in Pinal County effectively and minimize the financial impact of your DUI arrest. Remember that the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) imposes strict deadlines related to your driver's license after a DUI arrest. You have exactly 15 days from the date of the arrest to request a hearing with the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). Missing this deadline results in the automatic suspension of driving privileges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where do I go to request a hearing for my license suspension in Pinal County? A: You must request a hearing with the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) within 15 days of the arrest. This is done by emailing hearingoffice@azdot.gov.

Q: If my car was impounded in Florence, where do I pick it up? A: The arresting officer should provide the name of the towing company. Contact the company directly for the location.

Q: Can I get my personal belongings out of my car before I retrieve it from the impound lot? A: The Pinal County Sheriff's Office (PCSO) restricts Inmate Property Pickup to Monday – Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The inmate must fill out a Property Release Form from inside the facility. It cannot be done by the family at the window. The policy is "all or nothing." The designee must take all property (excluding clothing/shoes). They cannot just take the keys and leave the wallet. Call 520-866-5055 the business day prior to ensure the paperwork is processed.