Grayson County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Grayson County

Following a DUI arrest in Grayson County, Texas, one of your immediate concerns is likely getting your vehicle back. When you're arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), law enforcement officers typically impound your vehicle to ensure public safety and prevent liability. This guide provides the necessary information to navigate the vehicle retrieval process as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Where Is Your Car?

Grayson County does not operate a centralized municipal impound facility. Instead, arresting agencies use a rotational list of private towing companies. This means your car was likely towed to a private Vehicle Storage Facility (VSF). You, or someone acting on your behalf, will need to actively locate the vehicle.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation that includes the name and contact information of the towing company that took your vehicle.
• Call the Grayson County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: Contact the Grayson County Sheriff's Office to inquire about the location of your vehicle.
• Reference your booking number: Have your booking number ready when you call, as this will help them locate your records more efficiently.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

To retrieve your vehicle from the VSF, you’ll need to provide specific documentation and payment. Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) regulations govern what VSFs can and cannot require.

Required Documents

• Valid government-issued photo ID: This could be a driver's license or other acceptable form of identification.
• Instrument of ownership: This can be the vehicle's title or registration. A notarized Power of Attorney is also acceptable if you are not the registered owner.
• Payment for fees: You'll need to pay all accrued towing and storage charges before the vehicle can be released.

Important Note: A pervasive myth is that you need to show proof of insurance to retrieve your vehicle. According to TDLR regulations, Vehicle Storage Facilities are neither required nor permitted to demand proof of insurance as a condition of vehicle release. If you provide the required ID, ownership documents, and payment, the VSF is legally obligated to release the vehicle.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

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

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you allowing them to pick up the vehicle, and the vehicle's title or registration.

Special Note Regarding IIDs: If your driver's license is already restricted due to a prior conviction, requiring the use of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID), the VSF is legally barred from releasing the vehicle into your custody unless the vehicle is equipped with the functioning device.

Costs & Fees in Grayson County

Towing and storage fees are regulated by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).

• Maximum Standard Tow Fee: $272.00 (Light-duty vehicles under 10,000 lbs)
• Maximum Daily Storage Rate: $22.85 per day (vehicles ≤ 25 ft); $39.99 per day (vehicles > 25 ft)
• Maximum Administrative Fee: $50.00 (One-time notification fee)

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day, including partial days. To minimize costs, retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible. TDLR regulations stipulate that if a vehicle is present on the lot for two distinct calendar days, but the total duration of storage is less than 12 hours, the VSF is legally permitted to charge for only one day of storage.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. VSFs are mandated to accept cash, cashier's checks, and at least one form of electronic payment (Debit/Credit Card).

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the amount you'll owe.

After 30 Days

If the vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period, the VSF can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This typically occurs after 30 days. Do not let it reach this point, as you risk losing your vehicle permanently.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

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

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance in covering the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some VSFs may offer payment plans.

After Retrieval

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in the VSF's possession.
• Document any damage with photos: Take detailed photos of any scratches, dents, or other damage.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Obtain a written acknowledgment of your damage report from the lot manager.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can the impound lot refuse to release my car if I only have a copy of the title? A: Yes, the VSF requires an original title or registration, or a notarized Power of Attorney from the owner.

Q: What if the arresting officer didn't tell me where my car was towed? A: Call the Grayson County Sheriff's Office non-emergency number and provide your name and booking information. They should be able to provide the tow company's details.

Q: Can I get a refund if the impound lot charged me for two days even though my car was there less than 12 hours? A: Yes. Cite TDLR regulations regarding the "12-hour reset" and demand a refund of the extra day's storage fee.