Aransas County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Aransas County

Being arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Aransas County, Texas, is a stressful experience. One of the immediate concerns is often the impoundment of your vehicle. Understanding the process of retrieving your vehicle is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications. This guide provides practical steps to help you navigate the process of getting your car back after a DUI arrest in Aransas County.

Where Is Your Car?

After a DUI arrest, your vehicle is typically towed and stored at a private impound lot contracted by law enforcement. Aransas County and the City of Rockport utilize a "Non-Consent Towing Rotation List," meaning the arresting officer doesn't choose the towing company, but rather the next available company on the list is called. Unlike some larger cities, Aransas County does not operate a municipal impound facility.

It's important to locate your vehicle as quickly as possible to avoid accumulating storage fees. The precise location of your vehicle may not be immediately obvious, but here's how to find out:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should provide you with documentation that includes the name and contact information of the towing company that impounded your vehicle. This is the quickest way to find your car.
• Call the Aransas County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can't find the information on your paperwork, contact the Aransas County Sheriff's Office at (361) 790-0168. Provide them with your name, date of arrest, and vehicle description, and they should be able to tell you where your vehicle was towed.
• Reference your booking number: When you call the Sheriff's office, having your booking number readily available will help them locate your information more efficiently.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, you need to gather the necessary documents and prepare for the associated fees. Vehicle impoundment and release is governed by specific requirements.

Required Documents

To retrieve your vehicle, you will generally need the following:

• Valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You need to prove ownership of the vehicle. Bring the current vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: You must show proof that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license has been suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot personally retrieve the vehicle. However, there are options:

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

Costs & Fees in Aransas County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, making it essential to understand the potential costs involved.

Typical towing fees in Texas range from $150 to $300, while daily storage fees generally fall between $25 and $50 per day. However, these are just estimates.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily, so the longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes.

Payment

Before heading to the impound lot, call them to confirm their accepted payment methods. Some lots accept cash, credit cards, or money orders, while others may have more limited options.

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. Contact the towing company as soon as possible to determine their hours of operation and arrange for retrieval.

After 30 Days

Under Texas law, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This means they can sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding fees. Do everything you can to avoid this scenario.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider the following:

• 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 may offer payment plans or other arrangements to help you manage the expenses.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: A DUI attorney may be able to negotiate with the impound lot on your behalf or challenge the fees if they are excessive.

After Retrieval

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

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: 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 clear photos of any 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 leaving the premises. This will help you pursue a claim if necessary.

Navigating the aftermath of a DUI arrest is challenging, but understanding the process of retrieving your vehicle can help minimize additional stress and financial burden. Act quickly, gather the necessary documents, and be prepared to pay the associated fees to get your car back as soon as possible.