Bastrop County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Bastrop County

Being arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Bastrop County, Texas, is a stressful experience. Besides the legal ramifications, there's the immediate issue of your vehicle. In most DUI arrests, the vehicle is impounded, meaning it's towed and stored at a local impound lot. Understanding the process of retrieving your vehicle, the associated costs, and the necessary steps is crucial to minimize further financial burden and logistical headaches. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to getting your car back as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Where Is Your Car?

After a DUI arrest in Bastrop County, your vehicle is typically towed to a designated impound lot contracted by the arresting law enforcement agency. The Bastrop County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) utilizes a Tow Rotation List for non-consent tows. This means that when an officer initiates a tow because you are unable to make the decision due to arrest or intoxication, the next towing company on the list is contacted. According to Texas Occupations Code § 2308.209, this system ensures fair distribution of tows. Unfortunately, it also means you don't get to choose where your car is taken.

Finding out exactly where your vehicle was towed is the first crucial step. Here's how to locate it:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should provide documentation that includes the name and contact information of the towing company that took possession of your vehicle. This is often the quickest way to find your car.
• Call the Bastrop County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can't find the information on your paperwork, contact the BCSO. They can access records related to your arrest and provide the name and phone number of the towing company.
• Reference your booking number: When you call, provide your booking number. This will help the Sheriff's Office locate your records more efficiently. All DUI defendants are processed at the Bastrop County Jail located at 200 Jackson Street, Bastrop, Texas 78602.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your vehicle is impounded, contact the lot immediately to confirm their specific requirements for release. Generally, you'll need the following:

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is essential. Bring either the vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: You must demonstrate that the vehicle is insured.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay towing and storage fees. Contact the impound lot to confirm accepted methods of payment.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot retrieve the vehicle yourself. However, you can designate someone else to pick it up for you. They will need:

• Their valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid license.
• A signed authorization letter from you: A notarized letter authorizing them to pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• Vehicle title or registration: Proof of your ownership.

Costs & Fees in Bastrop County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, creating a significant financial burden. While specific impound lot data isn't available, you can expect costs similar to those in surrounding areas. Towing fees in Texas typically range from $150 to $300. Storage fees generally run between $25 and $50 per day. These fees are in addition to any fines or legal costs associated with your DUI charge. The City of Bastrop Ordinance A4.10 lists a cap of $150.00 for regular (light duty) tows and $300.00 for heavy duty tows.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily. The longer your vehicle remains impounded, the more expensive it becomes to retrieve it.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm which forms of payment they accept. Many accept cash, credit cards, and money orders, but policies vary. Knowing this information beforehand will save you time and prevent unnecessary trips.

Timeline

Act Immediately

The clock starts ticking the moment your vehicle is towed. Storage fees begin accruing immediately, so every day you delay retrieval increases the total cost.

After 30 Days

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

If You Can't Afford the Fees

The costs associated with a DUI arrest can be overwhelming. If you're struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider these options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for financial assistance to 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. This can ease the immediate financial strain.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: A DUI attorney may be able to negotiate with the impound lot to reduce the fees or challenge the legality of the impoundment in certain circumstances.

After Retrieval

Before driving away from 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 impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take photos of any scratches, dents, or other damage.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing: Before leaving, notify the impound lot manager of any damage and obtain a written acknowledgment of your report. This documentation will be crucial if you need to file a claim for damages later.

Navigating the aftermath of a DUI arrest is challenging. By understanding the process of vehicle retrieval and acting promptly, you can minimize the financial burden and logistical difficulties.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does Bastrop County have to bring me before a magistrate after a DUI arrest? Texas law requires that you be brought before a magistrate without unnecessary delay, and no later than 48 hours after your arrest. Bastrop County generally complies with this timeline.
2. If I am arrested for DUI on a Friday night in Bastrop County, when will I likely see a magistrate? Even though Bastrop County generally complies with the 48-hour rule, if you are arrested on a Friday night, you will likely spend the weekend in custody. While the magistrate might set bail on Saturday, administrative staff and bond agencies may have limited weekend operations, delaying your release.
3. What options are available for getting money into my inmate account at the Bastrop County Jail after a DUI arrest? Family members cannot hand cash directly to booking officers. They must use a third-party system, VendEngine, which requires mailing money orders to a processing center or using digital kiosks. This can delay your ability to secure a bond.