Goliad County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Goliad

Being arrested for a DUI in Goliad, Texas is stressful enough. On top of the legal challenges, you're likely dealing with the immediate problem of your impounded vehicle. This guide provides practical steps to help you retrieve your car as quickly as possible, minimizing fees and further complications. Remember, time is of the essence to avoid mounting storage costs.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Goliad, TX, law enforcement typically impounds your vehicle. This is done for several reasons:

• Public Safety: To prevent you from driving while intoxicated again.
• Evidence: In some cases, the vehicle might be considered evidence, especially if an accident occurred.
• Liability: To protect the city and law enforcement from liability if the vehicle is left unattended.

Understanding why your car was impounded is the first step in getting it back.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding your vehicle is crucial. It's likely at an official impound lot, but knowing exactly where will save you time and money.

Official Impound Lots in Goliad

Unfortunately, we don't have specific impound lot data for Goliad at this time. However, you can find out where your car is by taking the following steps:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Call Goliad Police/Sheriff: Contact the Goliad Police Department or the Goliad County Sheriff's Office immediately. They will have the information on where your vehicle was towed.
• Goliad Police Department Phone Number:
• Goliad County Sheriff's Office Phone Number:
• Reference Your Case Number: When you call, have your arrest paperwork ready. Your case number will help them locate the information quickly.
• Most Vehicles Towed Within 24 Hours of Arrest: Typically, your vehicle will be towed to the impound lot within 24 hours of your arrest.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Gathering the necessary documents is essential for a smooth retrieval process.

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle Registration: You'll need proof of ownership, which is your vehicle registration.
• Proof of Insurance: You must demonstrate that the vehicle is insured.
• Cash or Credit Card for Fees: Impound lots typically accept cash or credit cards for payment. Be prepared to pay the towing, storage, and administrative fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or you don't have a valid license:

• Have Someone Else Pick It Up: A friend or family member with a valid license can retrieve the vehicle for you.
• They Need:
• Their valid driver's license.
• Authorization from you (a signed letter stating they have your permission).
• Vehicle title or registration proving your ownership.

Costs & Fees in Goliad

The fees associated with impounding your vehicle can add up quickly. Understanding these costs is crucial for budgeting and planning.

Typical Fees

• Towing Fee: Expect to pay between $150 and $300 for the towing service.
• Daily Storage: Storage fees typically range from $20 to $50 per day. This is where costs can escalate rapidly.
• Administrative Fees: There may be additional administrative fees, potentially ranging from $25 to $75.
• Release Fee: A release fee might also be charged, potentially around $25 - $50.

IMPORTANT: Fees accumulate daily. The longer you wait, the more expensive it will be to get your car back.

Payment Methods

[Once impound lot data becomes available, list payment methods accepted by each lot here. Example: Cash, Visa, Mastercard, Discover.]

Timeline

Understanding the timeline is critical to avoid further complications.

Within 24 Hours

The best course of action is to retrieve your car immediately to avoid accumulating daily storage fees.

After 30 Days

If you don't retrieve your vehicle within 30 days, the impound lot may have the right to sell it at a lien sale to recover their costs.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Financial constraints can make retrieving your vehicle challenging. Here are some options:

Options

• Borrow from Family/Friends: Consider asking family or friends for a loan to cover the fees.
• Payment Plans: Some impound lots may offer payment plans. Inquire about this possibility.
• Sign Vehicle Over to Impound Lot: As a last resort, you might be able to sign the vehicle over to the impound lot. This avoids accruing further debt, but you will lose your car.

What NOT to Do

• Don't Wait: Delaying retrieval only increases the fees.
• Don't Abandon the Vehicle: Abandoning the vehicle can lead to further legal consequences and negative impacts on your credit.

Special Situations

Certain circumstances can complicate the retrieval process.

If Your Car Was Evidence

If your vehicle is being held as evidence in your DUI case, it may be held longer by the police. You'll need to obtain a release authorization from the Goliad County District Attorney's office before you can retrieve it. Contact your attorney for assistance with this.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

If the vehicle is registered in someone else's name, the registered owner can retrieve it, regardless of your situation. They will need to provide proof of ownership (title or registration) and a valid driver's license.

After Retrieval

Once you've retrieved your vehicle:

Check Your Vehicle

Thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.

Document Any Damage Immediately

Take photos and document any scratches, dents, or other damage.

Report Damage to Impound Lot Manager

Report the damage to the impound lot manager immediately. Obtain a written record of your report. This documentation may be necessary if you need to file a claim for damages.

Goliad Impound Lot Locations

[Once impound lot data becomes available, provide a detailed list of impound lot locations in Goliad, TX, including addresses, phone numbers, hours of operation, and a link to a map if possible.]

This guide provides a general overview of the vehicle retrieval process after a DUI arrest in Goliad, TX. Laws and procedures can change. It is always best to consult with an attorney for personalized legal advice regarding your specific situation.