Kerr County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Kerr County

After a DUI arrest in Kerr County, Texas, one of the first logistical hurdles you'll face is retrieving your vehicle. Because you were taken into custody, your car was likely impounded by law enforcement. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to locate, retrieve, and handle the associated fees and requirements to get your car back.

Where Is Your Car?

When a driver is arrested for DUI, law enforcement initiates a non-consent tow to remove the vehicle from the roadway. In Kerr County, the Kerr County Sheriff's Office and the Kerrville Police Department maintain a rotation list of authorized towing companies. The specific company that towed your vehicle depends on who was next on the rotation at the time of your arrest.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Finding out where your car was towed is the first step. Here's how to locate the impound lot:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation that includes the name of the towing company that took your vehicle.
• Call the Kerr County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot find the information on your paperwork, you can contact the Kerr County Sheriff's Office non-emergency dispatch line to inquire about the location of your vehicle.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number ready when you call can help expedite the search.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, you'll need specific documents and payment to retrieve it.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a currently valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must provide proof of ownership. A vehicle registration or title in your name will suffice.
• Proof of insurance: While not always required, having proof of insurance readily available can streamline the process.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot legally drive the vehicle yourself. Here's how to proceed:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: The easiest solution is to have someone with a valid driver's license pick up the vehicle for you.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license
• A signed authorization letter from you (stating they have permission to pick up your vehicle)
• The vehicle title or registration in your name

Costs & Fees in Kerr County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the costs is essential. Towing fees in Texas are capped by the state. The maximum base fee for light-duty towing is $272.00. The maximum administrative/notification fee is $50.00.

Daily storage rates are also capped. The maximum daily storage rate is $22.85 per day for vehicles under 25 feet.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily, including weekends and holidays. The sooner you retrieve your vehicle, the less you'll pay.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm which payment methods they accept. Most facilities accept cash and credit/debit cards, as electronic payment acceptance is legally mandated.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accumulating as soon as your vehicle arrives at the impound lot. Every day that passes increases the total cost.

After 30 Days

If a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period, the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their fees. This typically occurs after 30 days. To avoid losing your vehicle, act quickly.

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 facilities may offer payment plans, but this is not guaranteed.

After Retrieval

Before driving away with your vehicle, take these steps:

• 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 clear photos of any damage as evidence.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Inform the impound lot manager of the damage in writing before you leave the premises. This creates a record of your claim.

Remember, navigating the aftermath of a DUI arrest can be complex. Consulting with legal counsel is highly recommended. Browse licensed bail bondsmen serving Kerr County in our bail bond directory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does the impound lot have to notify me that my car was towed in Kerr County?

A: If your vehicle is registered in Texas, the Vehicle Storage Facility (VSF) must send a notification to the registered owner and lienholder to legally charge storage fees beyond five days. If your vehicle is registered out-of-state, the VSF must request your Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) from your home state within five days of impoundment.

Q: What if the impound lot in Kerr County demands proof of insurance before releasing my vehicle?

A: Texas law prohibits local law enforcement agencies and towing facilities from requiring proof of insurance before releasing a vehicle, provided you have valid identification, an acceptable instrument of release, and payment for all accrued fees.

Q: Can I access my vehicle at the Kerr County impound lot to get my registration paperwork without paying any fees?

A: Yes. Vehicle owners have the right to access their impounded vehicle to retrieve personal property or necessary ownership documents without being charged a fee.