Armstrong County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Armstrong County

Being arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Armstrong County, Texas, is a stressful experience. Beyond the legal ramifications, one of the immediate concerns is often the impoundment of your vehicle. Under Texas Transportation Code §545.305, law enforcement has the authority to impound vehicles operated by intoxicated individuals to prevent hazards to public safety. This guide provides a step-by-step process to help you navigate the vehicle retrieval process efficiently and minimize storage fees.

Where Is Your Car?

Following a DUI arrest in Armstrong County, your vehicle is most likely towed to the primary contracted Vehicle Storage Facility (VSF) for the county. Because Armstrong County does not operate its own impound lot, it contracts with a private company for these services.

The primary impound lot used by the Armstrong County Sheriff's Office is:

Ricky's Towing of Amarillo, LLC 3710 Tradewind St, Amarillo, TX 79118 (806) 371-7588

How to Find Your Vehicle

If you are unsure where your vehicle was towed, here are a few ways to find out:

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating the towing company used.
• Call the Armstrong County Sheriff's Office: Contact the non-emergency dispatch line at (806) 553-6933. Provide them with your name and date of arrest, and they should be able to tell you where your vehicle was towed.
• Reference your booking number: If you have your booking number from the Carson County Jail (where Armstrong County houses inmates), have that ready when you call.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

To retrieve your vehicle from Ricky's Towing, you will need to provide the following documentation and payment:

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License/ID: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid, unexpired driver's license or state-issued ID. If your license was confiscated at the time of arrest due to Administrative License Revocation (ALR) procedures, the DIC-25 temporary permit issued by the officer will suffice as a temporary driving permit.
• Vehicle Registration or Title: You must provide proof of ownership of the vehicle. Acceptable documents include the vehicle's registration or title.
• Proof of Insurance: You must show proof of valid liability insurance for the vehicle.
• Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay all towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended and you cannot legally drive, you have two options:

• Have a Licensed Friend or Family Member Retrieve It: A licensed individual can retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.
• They Need:
• Their valid driver's license.
• A signed letter of authorization from you, the registered owner, granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle. A notarized letter may be required by TDLR standards.
• The vehicle's title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Armstrong County

Understanding the costs associated with retrieving your vehicle is crucial to avoid unexpected expenses.

• Tow Fee: The maximum statewide base tow fee for light-duty tows is $272.00.
• Daily Storage Rate: Ricky's Towing charges $22.85 per day for vehicles 25 feet or less in length. For vehicles longer than 25 feet, the daily rate is $39.99.
• Administrative/Processing Fee: A $50.00 mandated notification fee applies if the vehicle is stored for more than 48 hours.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day, including partial days. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) allows VSFs to charge a full day's storage fee for any portion of a day the vehicle is on the lot.

• The 12-Hour Exception: There is a critical exception to this rule. If the vehicle is retrieved within 12 continuous hours of being towed, the facility can only charge for one day of storage, even if those 12 hours span two calendar days. Prioritize retrieving your vehicle as quickly as possible to capitalize on this exception.

Payment

Contact Ricky's Towing at (806) 371-7588 in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. They typically accept cash and major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover).

Timeline

Act Immediately

The most important thing to remember is to act immediately. Storage fees begin accruing the moment your vehicle is towed and can quickly escalate.

After 30 Days

If a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period, the impound lot is legally permitted to initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are facing financial hardship and struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider the following options:

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Ask for assistance in covering the costs.
• Ask About a Payment Plan: Inquire with Ricky's Towing about the possibility of a payment plan. Some facilities may offer this option.
• Consult with Your Attorney: Discuss the situation with your attorney. In some cases, they may be able to negotiate or challenge the fees.

After Retrieval

• Inspect the Vehicle: Before leaving Ricky's Towing, thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while in their care.
• Document Any Damage: Take photos of any damage you find.
• Report Any Damage: Immediately report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away. Keep a copy of your written report.

By following these steps, you can navigate the process of retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Armstrong County efficiently and minimize unnecessary expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

**1. Can I get my personal belongings out of my car before I pay the towing and storage fees?*Generally, yes. You should be allowed to retrieve essential personal belongings from your vehicle, such as medications, identification, and work-related items, even if you cannot immediately afford to pay the full impound fees. Contact Ricky's Towing at (806) 371-7588 to arrange a time to collect your belongings.

**2. What if I believe my vehicle was illegally towed?*If you believe the initial traffic stop or subsequent impoundment was unlawful, you have the right to request a tow hearing. The request must be filed within 14 calendar days of the tow with the Armstrong County Justice of the Peace Court, Precinct One, located at 100 Trice St., Claude, TX. A $41.00 filing fee is required. However, the Armstrong County Justice of the Peace Court operates on a four-day workweek and is closed on Fridays. Make sure to file before closing on Thursday if the 14th day falls on a Friday.

**3. Can the Armstrong County Sheriff's Office put a "hold" on my vehicle, preventing me from retrieving it?*Yes, in certain situations, such as a subsequent DWI offense, an accident involving the DWI, or a DWI involving child endangerment, the Armstrong County Sheriff's Office may place an evidentiary "police hold" on your vehicle. Contact the Sheriff's Office at (806) 553-6933 to verify whether a hold exists before attempting to retrieve your vehicle from Ricky's Towing.