DeWitt County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in DeWitt County

A DUI arrest in DeWitt County, Texas, can turn your life upside down in an instant. Beyond the legal ramifications and potential penalties, there's the immediate problem of your vehicle. In most DUI cases, the arresting officer will have your vehicle impounded, meaning it's towed and stored at a local impound lot until you can retrieve it. This guide provides a step-by-step plan to help you navigate the process of getting your car back as quickly and efficiently as possible. The clock is ticking — storage fees add up fast!

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI in DeWitt County, the arresting officer takes custody of your vehicle for several reasons:

• Safety: To prevent you from driving under the influence again.
• Liability: To protect the arresting agency from liability if the vehicle were left unattended and damaged or stolen.
• Evidence: In some cases, the vehicle itself may be considered evidence, especially if there was an accident involved.

After your arrest and booking, your vehicle is typically towed to a contracted impound lot. It's crucial to understand that you are responsible for all towing and storage fees associated with the impound, regardless of the outcome of your DUI case.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is locating your vehicle. You won't be able to get it back until you know where it's being held. Here's how to find out:

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 easiest and fastest way to find your car.
• Call the DeWitt County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can't find the paperwork, or the information is missing, call the DeWitt County Sheriff’s Office at (361) 275-5734. Be prepared to provide your name, date of birth, and date of arrest.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number ready when you call the Sheriff's Office will help them locate the information more quickly.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your vehicle is impounded, you need to gather the necessary documents to retrieve it. *Do not go to the impound lot without these!### Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle on your behalf) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must provide proof of ownership, such as the vehicle's registration or title.
• Proof of insurance: You need to show proof that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your driver's license is suspended or you don't have a valid license for any reason, you can still retrieve your vehicle by having a licensed individual do it for you.

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: Ask a trusted friend or family member with a valid driver's license to retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license.
• A signed authorization letter from you, giving them permission to retrieve the vehicle.
• The vehicle's title or registration to prove ownership.

Costs & Fees in DeWitt County

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

Typical towing fees in Texas can range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees typically range from $25 to $50 per day. These are just estimates; actual fees will vary depending on the specific impound lot.

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

Before heading to the impound lot, call them to confirm their exact fees and payment policies.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Some lots accept cash, credit cards, and money orders, but not all. Knowing what forms of payment they accept will save you a trip.

Timeline

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

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day you delay retrieving your vehicle, the more money you'll owe.

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. This means they can sell your vehicle to recover the unpaid towing and storage fees. *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, here are some options to consider:

• Contact a family member or friend to help cover costs: Ask for assistance from someone you trust.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans or installment options. It's worth asking, but don't count on it.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, a DUI attorney may be able to negotiate with the impound lot to reduce the fees, especially if there are extenuating circumstances.

After Retrieval

Once you've paid the fees and retrieved your vehicle, take the following precautions:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in the impound lot's custody.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear 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 protects your rights.

Getting your car back after a DUI arrest in DeWitt County can be a stressful process, but by following these steps, you can navigate the situation efficiently and minimize the financial burden. Remember to act quickly, gather the necessary documents, and be prepared to pay the required fees. Contact a DeWitt County DUI attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case and explore all your legal options.

Frequently Asked Questions

1Where is the DeWitt County Jail located and what are their hours? Contact the Dewitt County Sheriff Administration at 208 E Live Oak St # A, Cuero, TX 77954, or by calling (361) 275-0899 to inquire about the jail's exact location, hours for vehicle release, and accepted payment methods.

2Does the DeWitt County Sheriff’s Office offer any assistance in locating my vehicle after a DUI arrest? Yes, you can contact the DeWitt County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line at (361) 275-5734. They can help you determine where your vehicle was towed.

3What happens if I cannot afford to pay the impound fees in DeWitt County? Discuss your situation with the impound lot and inquire about payment plans. Also, consult with a DeWitt County DUI attorney to explore options for negotiating or challenging the fees.