Burnet County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Burnet County

After a DUI arrest in Burnet County, one of your immediate concerns is likely getting your vehicle back. Vehicles are commonly impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons: as evidence, for public safety (preventing further impaired driving), or due to legal requirements. Understanding the process for vehicle retrieval in Burnet County can save you time and money.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is locating your vehicle. Burnet County law enforcement agencies work with private towing companies to impound vehicles. Unlike larger cities, Burnet County does not operate its own municipal impound lot. This means your car is likely at a private Vehicle Storage Facility (VSF).

How to Find Your Vehicle

Here's how to determine where your vehicle was towed:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation that includes the name of the towing company and potentially their contact information. This is the quickest way to find your vehicle.
• Call the Burnet County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can't find the paperwork, contact the Burnet County Sheriff's Office. They can direct you to the appropriate agency or provide the towing company's information.
• Reference your booking number: When you call, provide your booking number (if you have it) to help them locate your information more efficiently.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Retrieving your vehicle requires specific documentation and payment. Be prepared before you go to the impound lot to avoid delays.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must prove ownership of the vehicle. Acceptable documents include the original certificate of title, a tax collector's receipt with vehicle registration renewal card, or current automobile lease documentation.
• Proof of insurance: Provide current proof of insurance for the vehicle.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or you don't have a valid license, you can still retrieve your vehicle by having someone else do it for you.

• 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 granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle. If you are incarcerated, this letter may need to be notarized. Remote online notarization services are valid in Texas.
• The vehicle's title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Burnet County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly. Be aware of these costs and act fast to minimize them. While specific rates vary, here's a general idea of what to expect:

Typical towing fees in Texas run $150–$300. Daily storage is usually $25–$50 per day.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to avoid excessive charges.

Contact the specific impound lot in advance to confirm their exact fees for towing, daily storage, and any administrative charges.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Most facilities accept cash, credit cards, and money orders. Hill Country Auto Salvage & Towing, a primary operator in Burnet County, does NOT accept checks.

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. Every day that passes increases the total amount you owe. Hill Country Auto Salvage closes at 3:00 PM on Saturdays and remains completely closed on Sundays. A vehicle impounded at 1:00 AM on Sunday cannot be retrieved until 8:30 AM on Monday.

After 30 Days

In Texas, if a vehicle remains unclaimed after a certain period (typically 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This means they can sell your vehicle at auction. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider these options:

• Contact a family member or friend to help cover costs: Ask for assistance to avoid further accumulating fees.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans or installment options. It's worth asking if this is an option.

After Retrieval

Before driving away with your vehicle, take these important steps:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred during the towing or storage process.
• Document any damage with photos: Take detailed photos of any scratches, dents, or other 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 you leave the premises. This creates a record of your claim and can be crucial if you need to pursue compensation for damages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where is the Burnet County Jail located? A: The Burnet County Jail is located at 1601 E. Polk St., Burnet, Texas 78611.

Q: How can I look up an inmate in the Burnet County Jail? A: You can search for inmates via the online portal at https://portal-txburnet.tylertech.cloud/PublicAccess/Login.aspx. Use the Username: visitor and Password: visitor to access the roster.

A: Browse licensed bail bondsmen serving Burnet County in our bail bond directory.