Howard County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Howard

Being arrested for a DUI in Howard, Texas is a stressful experience. On top of the legal worries, you're likely also wondering what happens to your vehicle. This guide provides immediate, practical information on how to retrieve your impounded car and what to expect during the process. Time is of the essence to minimize fees and avoid further complications.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Howard, TX, your vehicle is almost always impounded. This is standard procedure to ensure public safety and prevent further offenses. The impound is a temporary holding of your vehicle. While the reasons vary slightly, the primary reasons are:

• Public Safety: Removing an intoxicated driver's vehicle from the road prevents them from continuing to drive under the influence.
• Evidence: In some cases, the vehicle itself may be considered evidence related to the DUI charge.
• Liability: The impound lot assumes responsibility for the vehicle's safekeeping, reducing liability concerns for law enforcement.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding out where your car is impounded is the first step. Since we don't have specific impound lot data for Howard County, TX, here's how to track it down:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with paperwork at the time of your arrest. This paperwork will typically list the name and contact information of the towing company that impounded your vehicle. This is the first place you should look.
• Call the Howard County Sheriff's Office: If you can't locate the paperwork or the information is missing, contact the Howard County Sheriff's Office. The Howard County Sheriff is located in Big Spring, TX 79720, and can be reached at (432) 264-2231. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and the date of your arrest, and they should be able to tell you where your vehicle is located.
• Reference Your Booking Number: When you call, provide your name and booking number (if you have it). This will help them quickly locate the impound information.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your car is, you need to gather the necessary documents and payment.

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License (or Someone with a Valid License): The person retrieving the vehicle needs to have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle Registration or Title: Proof of ownership is essential.
• Proof of Insurance: The vehicle must be insured.
• Payment for Fees: Impound lots typically accept cash or credit cards. Call the specific lot beforehand to confirm acceptable payment methods.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or revoked due to the DUI arrest, you'll need someone else to retrieve the vehicle.

• Have Someone Else Pick It Up: A friend or family member with a valid license can pick up the car for you.
• They Need: Their valid driver’s license, a signed authorization letter from you (a simple written note stating you authorize them to pick up the vehicle), and the vehicle's title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Howard County

Understanding the costs involved is crucial to planning your retrieval.

Typical Fees

• Towing Fee: Expect this to be between $150 and $300.
• Daily Storage: This can range from $25 to $50 per day. This is where costs can quickly escalate.
• Administrative Fees: These fees cover paperwork and processing.

IMPORTANT: Fees accumulate daily. The longer you wait, the more it will cost. Act quickly.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm acceptable payment methods. Most accept cash and major credit cards, but it's always best to verify before you go.

Timeline

Understanding the timeline is critical to avoid further complications.

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day costs more money. Retrieving your car within the first 24 hours is highly recommended to minimize these daily storage fees.

After 30 Days

Most states, including Texas, allow the impound lot to initiate a lien sale if the vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days). This means they can sell your car to recover their costs. Do not let it reach this point. You'll lose your car and potentially face further legal issues.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Facing financial hardship after a DUI arrest is common. Here are some options:

Options

• Borrow from Family/Friends: This is often the quickest and easiest solution.
• Payment Plans (Some Lots Offer This): Inquire with the impound lot about payment plan options. Some may be willing to work with you.
• Consult with Your Attorney: In some cases, a DUI attorney may be able to negotiate or challenge impound fees.

What NOT to Do

• Don't Wait: As emphasized earlier, fees add up fast. Procrastination will only make the situation worse.
• Don't Abandon the Vehicle: Abandoning your vehicle can lead to additional fines and legal penalties.

After Retrieval

After retrieving your vehicle, take these precautions:

Check Your Vehicle

• Inspect Immediately: Before leaving the impound lot, carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in their care.
• Document Damage: Take photos of any damage you find.
• Report Damage: Report any damage to the impound lot manager in writing before you drive away. This will help you if you need to file a claim later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does the impound lot have to hold my vehicle? A: In Texas, impound lots typically have the right to begin a lien sale process after 30 days of unclaimed storage.

Q: What if I can't find my vehicle registration? A: Contact the Texas DMV to obtain a copy of your vehicle registration. You will likely need to provide proof of ownership and pay a small fee.

Q: Can I get a partial refund of the impound fees if I retrieve my car early? A: It depends on the impound lot's policies. Some may offer a partial refund for unused storage days, while others may not. It's best to inquire directly with the lot.