Falls County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Falls County

After a DUI arrest in Falls County, one of your immediate concerns is likely retrieving your vehicle. In most cases, the arresting officer will have your car towed and impounded. This is standard procedure to ensure public safety and prevent further potential offenses. Understanding the process for getting your car back, the associated costs, and your rights is crucial to navigate this stressful situation efficiently.

Where Is Your Car?

Your vehicle was likely towed to one of the impound lots authorized by the Falls County Sheriff's Office. Here's where to start looking:

• Comma Towing located at 303 Perry Street, Marlin, TX 76661.

• Mike's Towing Service located at 3205 Industrial Dr, Wichita Falls, TX 76306.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating which towing company impounded your vehicle. This is the quickest way to confirm its location.
• Call the Falls County Sheriff's Office: If you can't locate your paperwork, contact the Falls County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line. They can help you determine where your vehicle was towed.
• Reference your booking number: Have your booking number ready when you call, as this will help them quickly locate the relevant information.

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: 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 the towing and storage fees. Contact the impound lot beforehand to understand their accepted payment methods.

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: Ask a trusted friend or family member with a valid license to pick up the vehicle.
• They need: In addition to their valid driver's license, they'll need a signed authorization letter from you granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle, and the vehicle title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Falls County

Retrieving your vehicle involves several fees that can add up quickly. Knowing what to expect will help you prepare financially.

• Comma Towing Daily Storage Fee: $N/A
• Mike's Towing Service Daily Storage Fee: $N/A

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day your vehicle remains at the impound lot. This can quickly become a significant expense, so it's crucial to act promptly.

Payment

Contact the specific impound lot where your vehicle is located before you go there. Confirm which forms of payment they accept (cash, credit card, money order, etc.). This will prevent any last-minute surprises.

Timeline

Act Immediately

The clock starts ticking as soon as your vehicle is towed. Storage fees begin accruing immediately, so every day of delay increases the total cost.

After 30 Days

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

If You Can't Afford the Fees

The costs associated with retrieving an impounded vehicle can be a significant burden, especially after a DUI arrest. If you're struggling to afford the fees, consider these options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance from someone you trust to help cover the costs.
• 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 inquiring about this option.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: A DUI attorney can sometimes negotiate with the impound lot or challenge the fees in certain circumstances.

After Retrieval

Once you've paid the fees and are ready to take your vehicle, 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 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 strengthens your position if you need to pursue compensation for the damage.