Yavapai County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Yavapai County

Being arrested for DUI in Yavapai County is a stressful experience, and one of the immediate concerns is often: what happens to my car? In most DUI arrests, the vehicle is impounded by law enforcement. This is standard procedure under Arizona law, and understanding the process for retrieving your vehicle is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to locate, retrieve, and handle the costs associated with getting your car back after a DUI arrest in Yavapai County.

Where Is Your Car?

After a DUI arrest, your vehicle is typically towed to a local impound lot. It's essential to determine where your car has been taken as quickly as possible to begin the retrieval process and minimize storage fees. The arresting officer should inform you of the towing company used, but if you don't have that information readily available, here's how to find out:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The paperwork provided by the arresting officer should include the name and contact information of the towing company that impounded your vehicle. This is the quickest and most direct way to locate your car.
• Call the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot locate the paperwork or the information is missing, contact the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office (YCSO) non-emergency line. They can assist you in locating your vehicle based on your name and date of arrest.
• Reference your booking number: When you call the YCSO, provide your booking number, if you know it. This will help them quickly locate your records and provide the necessary information about your vehicle's location.

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. The impound lot will require specific documentation to release your vehicle.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license. If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest (Admin Per Se suspension), you'll need someone else with a valid license to pick up the car. Remember that under A.R.S. § 28-1385, if you are served with an Admin Per Se affidavit, the suspension becomes effective 15 days from the date served.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must provide proof of ownership, either through the vehicle registration or the title. This confirms that you (or the person authorized to retrieve the vehicle) have the legal right to claim it.
• Proof of insurance: Current proof of insurance for the vehicle is required. The insurance must be valid and in effect at the time of retrieval.
• Payment for fees: You will need to pay all accrued towing and storage fees before the vehicle is released.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your driver's license is suspended or you don't have a valid license for any reason, you can still retrieve your vehicle by having someone else pick it up for you. Here's what they'll need:

• Their valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid, unexpired driver's license.
• A signed authorization letter from you: A written and signed authorization letter from you, granting them permission to retrieve your vehicle on your behalf. The letter should include your full name, date of birth, driver's license number, and a clear statement authorizing the individual to pick up the vehicle.
• Vehicle title or registration: Proof of your ownership of the vehicle, such as the title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Yavapai County

Towing and storage fees can accumulate quickly, so understanding the potential costs is essential. While specific pricing varies by impound lot, here are typical ranges for Arizona:

• Typical towing fees in Arizona run $150–$300.
• Daily storage is usually $25–$50 per day.

Contact the specific impound lot holding your vehicle in Yavapai County to confirm their exact fees before you go. Be prepared for these expenses, as they must be paid before your vehicle can be released.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize costs.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Most lots accept cash, and many accept credit cards or money orders. Confirming this beforehand will save you time and potential inconvenience.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the total cost. The sooner you act, the less you'll pay.

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. Do not let it reach this point, as you could lose your vehicle permanently.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider these options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Reach out to family or friends who may be able to 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 off the fees in installments. Inquire about this option, but be aware that interest or additional fees may apply.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: A DUI attorney can sometimes negotiate with the impound lot or challenge the fees if there are grounds to do so. They can also advise you on your legal options. Remember that under Senate Bill 1334, the time spent driving with a Special Ignition Interlock Restricted Driver License (SIIRDL) now credits toward any future mandatory ignition interlock period required upon conviction.

After Retrieval

Before driving away with your vehicle, take these important steps:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Carefully inspect the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• 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 creates a record of the damage and can be crucial if you need to file a claim later.

By following these steps, you can navigate the process of retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Yavapai County and minimize potential complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to retrieve my car before the impound lot sells it? A: In Arizona, impound lots can typically begin the process of selling unclaimed vehicles after approximately 30 days. Contact the specific lot holding your car to confirm their exact policy.

Q: Can I get a reduced rate on storage fees if I can't afford them? A: It's possible, but not guaranteed. Speak with the impound lot manager to see if they offer any payment plans or reduced rates based on your financial situation. Having representation from a DUI attorney may also help with negotiating fees.

Q: What if the paperwork lists the wrong vehicle information? A: If there are errors in the vehicle information on the impound paperwork, contact the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office immediately to correct the records. Provide them with the correct information and request a revised document.