Bailey County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Bailey County

Being arrested for DUI in Bailey County, Texas, is a stressful experience, and one of the immediate concerns is often, "What happens to my car?" In most cases, your vehicle will be impounded following a DUI arrest. This is standard procedure to ensure public safety and prevent further potential offenses. Understanding the impound process and how to retrieve your vehicle is crucial to minimizing additional expenses and complications. This guide provides practical information on how to navigate the vehicle retrieval process in Bailey County.

Where Is Your Car?

In Bailey County, vehicles impounded after a DUI arrest are typically taken to:

• Tow Pros: 2002 W. Ash St., Muleshoe, TX 79347. Dispatch can be reached at 806-470-4018.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Locating your vehicle quickly is essential to minimize storage fees. Here are a few ways to determine where your car was towed:

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating the name of the towing company and the location of the impound lot.
• Call the Bailey County Sheriff's Office: You can contact the non-emergency line at 806-272-4268 to inquire about the location of your vehicle. Provide your name and date of birth for quicker assistance.
• Reference Your Booking Number: When you call the Sheriff's Office, having your booking number ready will help them locate your vehicle information faster.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Retrieving your vehicle from the impound lot requires specific documentation and payment. Be prepared to present the following:

Required Documents

• Valid Government ID: The person retrieving the vehicle must present a valid driver's license or other government-issued photo identification.
• Vehicle Registration or Title: You must provide proof of ownership, such as the vehicle's registration or title.
• Proof of Insurance: A current insurance card or other documentation verifying insurance coverage for the impounded vehicle is mandatory. A "hard copy" or digital proof of insurance specifically listing the impounded vehicle is required.
• Payment for Fees: You will be responsible for paying all towing and storage fees before the vehicle can be released.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your driver's license was suspended or confiscated at the time of your DUI arrest, you cannot legally drive the vehicle off the lot yourself. In this situation:

• Have a Licensed Friend or Family Member Retrieve It: A licensed driver can retrieve 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 Bailey County

Understanding the costs associated with vehicle impoundment is crucial for planning your retrieval strategy. According to the City of Muleshoe Ordinance (§ A1.002), the storage fee is $10.00 per day, and Towing is a "Reasonable fee equal to actual cost." In addition, there is a Garagekeeper Fee of $10.00 reporting fee.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day, starting from the moment your vehicle is towed. Contact Tow Pros to understand any additional fees they may assess. Retrieving your vehicle as quickly as possible will minimize the overall cost. Keep in mind that these fees may not reflect the actual fees charged by the towing company.

Payment

Call Tow Pros in advance at 806-470-4018 to confirm the accepted methods of payment. Most impound lots accept cash, and some may accept credit cards or money orders. Be prepared to pay the full amount due before the vehicle is released.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the total amount you owe. Contact Tow Pros as soon as possible to determine the exact amount due and make arrangements for retrieval.

After 30 Days

In Texas, if a vehicle remains unclaimed at an impound lot for an extended period (typically 30 days), the lot has the right to initiate a lien sale to recover unpaid fees. Do not allow the situation to reach this point. Contact the impound lot immediately to make arrangements for retrieval.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

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

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Reach out to family members or friends who may be able to assist you with covering the costs.
• Ask the Impound Lot About a Payment Plan: Some impound lots may be willing to offer a payment plan, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. Inquire about this option with Tow Pros.
• Consult with a DUI Attorney: A qualified DUI attorney may be able to negotiate with the impound lot on your behalf or challenge the fees in certain cases.

After Retrieval

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately Before Leaving the Lot: Carefully inspect the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in the impound lot's possession.
• Document Any Damage with Photos: Take detailed photos of any damage you find, as this will serve as evidence if you need to file a claim.
• Report Any Damage to the Lot Manager in Writing Before You Drive Away: Notify the Tow Pros lot manager of any damage in writing before you leave the premises. Obtain a copy of the written report for your records.

Navigating the vehicle impound process after a DUI arrest in Bailey County can be challenging, but by following these steps and acting quickly, you can retrieve your vehicle and minimize additional expenses.