Crane County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Crane County

Being arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Crane County, Texas, is a stressful experience. One of your immediate concerns is likely, "What happens to my car?" This guide provides practical information on how to locate, retrieve, and handle the costs associated with your impounded vehicle. Acting quickly and understanding the process is crucial to minimize expenses and potential complications.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you are arrested for DUI in Crane County, your vehicle is typically impounded. This is standard procedure to ensure public safety and prevent further operation of the vehicle by an impaired driver. The vehicle is towed to a designated impound lot, where it will be held until you (or a designated representative) take the necessary steps to retrieve it.

Where Is Your Car?

Locating your vehicle is the first step in the retrieval process. Here's how to find out where your car was towed in Crane County:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with paperwork that includes the name and contact information of the towing company that impounded your vehicle. This is the quickest and easiest way to find its location.
• Call the Crane County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot locate your paperwork, contact the Crane County Sheriff Office at (432) 558-3571. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and date of arrest. They should be able to provide you with the name and location of the impound lot.
• Reference your booking number: Your booking number, assigned during the booking process at the Crane County Jail, can help the Sheriff's Office locate your vehicle information more efficiently.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, you'll need to gather the necessary documents and payment to retrieve it.

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'll need to provide proof of ownership of the vehicle. This can be either the vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: You must show proof that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all towing and storage fees in full.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or you don't have a valid license for any reason, you can still have someone else retrieve the vehicle 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.
• A copy of your driver's license or identification.
• The vehicle title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Crane County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so it's crucial to understand the potential costs involved.

Typical towing fees in Texas range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees typically range from $25 to $50 per day. However, fees vary by impound lot, so it's essential to call ahead to confirm the exact amounts before you go.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. The longer you wait to retrieve your vehicle, the more it will cost.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Most impound lots accept cash, and some may accept credit cards or money orders. Be prepared to pay in full when you arrive.

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 amount you owe. Contact the impound lot as soon as possible to determine the exact fees and arrange for retrieval.

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. This means they can sell your vehicle to recover the unpaid towing and storage fees. Do everything possible to retrieve your vehicle before it reaches this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

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

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance from someone who can help cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans or allow you to pay the fees in installments. It doesn't hurt to ask.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate the fees with the impound lot or challenge them in court.

After Retrieval

Before leaving the impound lot with your vehicle, take the following steps:

Check Your Vehicle

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any new damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take detailed photographs of any damage as proof.
• Report damage to the lot manager: Immediately report any damage to the impound lot manager and file a written complaint before you drive the vehicle off the lot. Get a copy of the complaint for your records.

Remember, retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Crane County requires prompt action and careful attention to detail. By following these steps, you can minimize costs and ensure a smooth retrieval process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does the impound lot have to hold my vehicle in Crane County? A: In Texas, impound lots typically must hold vehicles for at least 30 days before initiating a lien sale. However, it's best to retrieve your vehicle as soon as possible to avoid accumulating excessive storage fees.

Q: What if I can't find the paperwork from my arrest? A: Contact the Crane County Sheriff Office at (432) 558-3571. They can help you locate the impound lot information using your name, date of birth, and date of arrest.

Q: Can someone else retrieve my car for me if I'm still in jail? A: Yes, someone with a valid driver's license, your vehicle registration or title, proof of insurance, and a signed authorization letter from you can retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.