Bexar County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Bexar County

Being arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Bexar County can be a disorienting experience. Beyond the immediate legal ramifications, there's the practical issue of your vehicle. Often, after a DUI arrest, your car is impounded and towed. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to locating and retrieving your vehicle as quickly and efficiently as possible. Time is of the essence, as storage fees accrue daily.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is determining where your vehicle was towed. The arresting officer should have provided documentation, but in the aftermath of an arrest, details can be easily overlooked. Here are the primary ways to locate your vehicle:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The paperwork provided by the arresting officer should list the name of the towing company and the location of the impound lot. This is the most direct way to find your vehicle.
• Call the Bexar County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot locate the paperwork, contact the Bexar County Sheriff's Office. Explain that your vehicle was impounded following a DUI arrest and provide any information you have, such as the location of the arrest.
• Reference your booking number: When contacting the Bexar County Sheriff's Office, providing your booking number will help them locate your information more quickly. If you don't have it, they can still assist you using your name and date of arrest.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your vehicle is impounded, gather the necessary documents. The impound lot will require specific paperwork before releasing the vehicle.

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 currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot personally retrieve the vehicle. You have two options:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A licensed individual can pick up 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, and the vehicle's title or registration to prove ownership.

Costs & Fees in Bexar County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the cost structure is crucial.

Typical towing fees in Texas generally range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees are usually between $25 and $50 per day. These are just estimates.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize expenses.

Fees can vary significantly between different impound lots.

Payment

Before heading to the impound lot, call them to confirm their accepted methods of payment. Some lots accept cash, credit cards, and money orders, while others may have limitations. Calling ahead prevents unnecessary trips.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every passing day increases the total cost, so act without delay.

After 30 Days

In Texas, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period, the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This typically occurs after 30 days. Do everything possible to retrieve your vehicle before it reaches this point, or you risk losing it permanently.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are facing financial hardship and cannot afford the towing and storage fees, explore these options:

• Contact a family member or friend to help cover costs: Reach out to your support network for assistance.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. It's worth asking, though not all lots offer this.
• Consult with your attorney: Your attorney may be able to negotiate with the impound lot or challenge the fees in certain circumstances.

After Retrieval

Before driving away from the impound lot, take these precautions:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photographs of any damage you find.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Notify the impound lot manager in writing about any damage before you leave the premises. This creates a record of the damage and strengthens your claim if you need to pursue compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does the impound lot have to hold my car in Bexar County? A: In Texas, impound lots can generally begin the process of selling unclaimed vehicles after 30 days. Contact the specific lot that impounded your vehicle for their exact policy.

Q: What happens if I can't afford to get my car out of impound in Bexar County? A: If you are unable to afford the fees, the impound lot may eventually sell the vehicle to recoup their costs. You may want to explore options such as borrowing money from family or friends, or contacting a legal aid organization for assistance.

Q: Can I get a temporary license to retrieve my car in Bexar County if my license is suspended due to the DUI? A: No, a temporary license is not available for this purpose. A licensed driver must retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.