Denton County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Denton County

Being arrested for DUI in Denton County is a stressful experience, and one of the first things you'll likely worry about is your vehicle. After a DUI arrest, law enforcement will typically have your vehicle towed and impounded. This guide provides the essential steps you need to take to retrieve your car as quickly and efficiently as possible. The longer you wait, the more it will cost you in storage fees.

Where Is Your Car?

In Denton County, vehicles are typically towed to private Vehicle Storage Facilities (VSFs) authorized by the City of Denton Police Department and the Denton County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO). Here is the contact information for a local impound lot:

• Puckett’s Inc. Towing
• Address: 314 SW 29th Street (main dispatch hub reference)
• Phone: N/A
• Daily Fee: $N/A

How to Find Your Vehicle

Finding your vehicle quickly is crucial to minimizing storage fees. Here are a few ways to locate it:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with paperwork that includes the name and contact information for the towing company that impounded your vehicle.
• Call the Denton County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can't find the paperwork, you can contact the Denton County Sheriff’s Office at 940-349-1700 and inquire about the location of your vehicle.
• Reference your booking number: When you call, have your booking number ready. This will help them locate your vehicle information more quickly.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, make sure you have all the necessary documentation to avoid delays and additional trips.

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 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 due to the DUI arrest, you can still retrieve your vehicle, but you'll need someone with a valid license to do so on your behalf.

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A licensed driver can pick up the vehicle for you.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license
• A signed authorization letter from you, granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle
• The vehicle title or registration in your name

Costs & Fees in Denton County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the costs involved is essential.

Puckett’s Inc. Towing charges a daily storage fee of $N/A. Remember that this fee accrues every day your vehicle is stored at the lot.

IMPORTANT: Given the way that storage fees are calculated in Denton County, even a few hours can make a difference. The "daily storage fee" clock is aggressive. In Denton County jurisdictions, the fee cycle typically resets at midnight. For example, a vehicle towed at 10:00 PM on Saturday and released at 12:01 AM Monday will be charged for three days of storage.

Payment

Contact Puckett’s Inc. Towing before you go to the lot to confirm their accepted payment methods. Some lots accept cash, credit cards, and money orders, but it's crucial to verify this in advance to avoid any surprises.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when it comes to retrieving your vehicle.

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accumulating the moment your vehicle is towed. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes.

After 30 Days

In Texas, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period (typically 30 days), the impound lot has the right to initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This means they can sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding fees. Do everything you can to retrieve your vehicle before it reaches this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, here are a few options to consider:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask if they can help you cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans to help you manage the expenses. It doesn't hurt to ask.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: In some cases, a DUI attorney may be able to negotiate or challenge the fees on your behalf.

After Retrieval

Before driving your vehicle off the lot, take these important steps:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in the impound lot's possession.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photos of any scratches, dents, or other damage you find.
• Report any damage to the lot manager: Notify the lot manager of any damage in writing before you drive the vehicle away. This will help you file a claim if necessary.

By following these steps, you can navigate the process of retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Denton County and minimize the financial burden. Remember to act quickly and gather all the necessary documentation to ensure a smooth and efficient retrieval.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Where is the Denton County Jail located? The Denton County Jail is located at 127 N. Woodrow Lane, Denton, TX 76205.

• What is the non-emergency number for the Denton County Sheriff's Office? The non-emergency number is 940-349-1700.

• Where is the Denton County Courts Building? The Denton County Courts Building is located at 1450 E. McKinney Street, Denton, TX 76209.