Andrews County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Andrews

Being arrested for a DUI in Andrews, Texas is stressful enough. On top of dealing with the legal ramifications, you're likely facing the immediate problem of getting your vehicle back. This guide provides practical steps you can take right now to retrieve your impounded car and minimize the costs involved. Remember, time is of the essence!

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Andrews, your vehicle is typically impounded for several reasons. Primarily, it's to prevent you from driving under the influence again. It also ensures the vehicle is safely stored while you address the legal process. Knowing what to do next is crucial to avoid escalating costs and complications.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is locating your vehicle. It’s likely at an official impound lot within or near Andrews.

Official Impound Lots in Andrews

Unfortunately, we don't have specific impound lot data for Andrews at this time. However, you can quickly find out where your car is by following these steps:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Call Andrews Police/Sheriff: Start by calling the Andrews Police Department or the Andrews County Sheriff's Office. They were likely involved in your arrest and will know where your vehicle was towed.
• Reference your case number: When you call, have your arrest information and case number ready. This will help them quickly locate your vehicle information.
• Most vehicles towed within 24 hours of arrest: Your car was likely towed within 24 hours of your arrest, so act quickly.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Retrieving your vehicle requires specific documentation. Make sure you have everything prepared to avoid delays and additional fees.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or someone with a valid license): A valid driver's license is essential. If yours is suspended or revoked, you'll need someone with a valid license to retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.
• Vehicle registration: Proof of ownership is required.
• Proof of insurance: Ensure the vehicle is currently insured.
• Cash or credit card for fees: Impound lots typically accept cash or credit cards. Confirm acceptable payment methods with the specific impound lot.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you have a few options:

• Have someone else pick it up: A friend or family member with a valid driver's license can retrieve the vehicle for you.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license
• Written authorization from you allowing them to pick up the vehicle. A simple signed note will usually suffice.
• Vehicle title or registration proving ownership.

Costs & Fees in Andrews

Understanding the costs involved is crucial. Impound fees can quickly add up, making it imperative to retrieve your vehicle as soon as possible.

Typical Fees

• Towing fee: $150-$300 (This is a general estimate; the actual fee may vary)
• Daily storage: $20-$50 per day (Storage fees accumulate quickly, so prompt action is key.)
• Administrative fees: $[Range - Research local fees if possible]
• Release fee: $[Amount - Research local fees if possible]

IMPORTANT: Fees accumulate daily. Get your car ASAP to avoid significant expenses.

Payment Methods

[Research and insert payment methods accepted by Andrews-area tow companies. Examples: Cash, Credit Card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), Debit Card, Money Order]

Timeline

Knowing the timeline is critical to avoid losing your vehicle.

Within 24 Hours

Ideally, you should retrieve your car within 24 hours of the impound to minimize daily storage fees.

After 30 Days

If you don't retrieve your vehicle within 30 days (or whatever the specific period is in Texas law), the impound lot may have the right to sell it at a lien sale to recover their costs. Don't let this happen!

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Facing unexpected impound fees can be overwhelming. Here are some options to consider:

Options

• Borrow from family/friends: This is often the quickest and easiest solution.
• Payment plans: Inquire with the impound lot about payment plan options. Some may be willing to work with you, but this is not guaranteed.
• Sign vehicle over to impound lot: As a last resort, you can sign the vehicle over to the impound lot. This avoids accumulating further debt, but you will lose your car.

What NOT to Do

• Don't wait: Fees add up rapidly. Procrastination will only worsen the financial burden.
• Don't abandon the vehicle: Abandoning the vehicle can lead to further legal issues and fines.

Special Situations

Certain situations require special attention.

If Your Car Was Evidence

If your vehicle is being held as evidence in your DUI case, the police will likely retain it for a longer period. You'll need to obtain a release authorization from the police department or the District Attorney's office before you can retrieve it. Ask your attorney for assistance with this.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

If the vehicle is registered to someone else (e.g., a parent or spouse), the registered owner has the right to retrieve it, regardless of your situation. They will need to provide proof of ownership (title or registration) and a valid driver's license.

After Retrieval

Once you retrieve your vehicle, take these steps:

Check Your Vehicle

Thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.

Document Any Damage Immediately

Take photos and make detailed notes of any damage you find.

Report Damage to Impound Lot Manager

Report any damage to the impound lot manager immediately and obtain a written acknowledgment of your report. This will be crucial if you need to file a claim for damages later.

Andrews Impound Lot Locations

[Ideally, a detailed list of impound lots in and around Andrews would be here, including addresses, phone numbers, hours of operation, and a Google Maps integration. Since this data is currently unavailable, encourage users to contact the Andrews Police Department or Sheriff's Office for precise location information.]