Lipscomb County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Lipscomb County

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

Being arrested for DUI in Lipscomb County, Texas, is stressful enough, but dealing with the impoundment of your vehicle adds another layer of complexity and expense. After a DUI arrest, your vehicle is typically impounded to prevent you from driving it while intoxicated and to ensure public safety. This guide provides practical information on how to locate, retrieve, and handle the costs associated with getting your car back. Understanding the process and acting quickly can minimize fees and prevent further complications.

Where Is Your Car?

After a DUI arrest in Lipscomb County, your vehicle will likely be towed to one of the local impound lots. Here's where it might be:

• Pina's Towing Service: 606 N 13th St, Paducah, TX 79248. Phone: (806) 492-2011
• TDP Performance & Wrecker Services: 13862 US-287, Chillicothe, TX 79225. Phone: (940) 839-9228

How to Find Your Vehicle

Locating your vehicle quickly is crucial to minimize storage fees. Here are a few ways to find out where your car was towed:

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with paperwork that includes the name and contact information of the towing company that impounded your vehicle.
• Call the Lipscomb County Sheriff's Office: Contact the Lipscomb County Sheriff's Office at 105 Oak St, Lipscomb, TX 79056 or call them at (806) 862-2611. Provide them with your name, date of arrest, and vehicle information, and they should be able to tell you where your car was towed.
• Reference Your Booking Number: Your booking number, assigned during processing at the Lipscomb County jail, can help the Sheriff's Office quickly locate information about your vehicle's impoundment.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, gather all the necessary documents to ensure a smooth retrieval process.

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle Registration or Title: You must provide proof of ownership, such as the vehicle registration or title.
• Proof of Insurance: You must show proof of current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay all towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you can still retrieve your vehicle by having someone else pick it up for you. They will need:

• Their Valid Driver's License: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• A Signed Authorization Letter from You: A notarized letter authorizing them to pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• Vehicle Title or Registration: Proof of your ownership.

Costs & Fees in Lipscomb County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the costs involved is essential. Contact the specific impound lot where your vehicle is located to confirm their exact fees and payment policies.

• Pina's Towing Service: Daily Fee: $N/A
• TDP Performance & Wrecker Services: Daily Fee: $N/A

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day, including weekends and holidays. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize expenses.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Most impound lots accept cash, but some may also accept credit cards or money orders. Call ahead to avoid any surprises when you arrive to pick up your vehicle.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day your vehicle remains at the impound lot costs you more money. Contact the towing company as soon as possible to determine the exact fees and arrange for retrieval.

After 30 Days

In Texas, if a vehicle remains unclaimed at an impound lot for an extended period (typically 30 days), the lot has the right to initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This means they can sell your vehicle to the highest bidder. Do not let it reach this point. Contact the impound lot immediately to make arrangements for retrieval.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider the following options:

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Ask for assistance from family or friends to help cover the costs.
• Ask the Impound Lot if a Payment Plan is Available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans or allow you to pay the fees in installments. It's worth asking if this is an option.
• Consult with Your Attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate with the impound lot to reduce the fees or challenge the legality of the impoundment.

After Retrieval

Before driving your vehicle away from the impound lot, take the following precautions:

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately: Carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was being towed or stored.
• Document Any Damage with Photos: Take photos of any damage you find, as this will serve as evidence if you need to file a claim.
• 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 will help protect your rights if you need to pursue a claim for damages.

Retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Lipscomb County requires prompt action and careful attention to detail. By understanding the process, gathering the necessary documents, and acting quickly, you can minimize fees and avoid further complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does Pina's Towing Service hold impounded vehicles in Lipscomb County before selling them? They typically hold vehicles for around 30 days before initiating a lien sale, but it's essential to confirm their specific policy directly. Contact them at (806) 492-2011.
2. Can I get a hardship license in Lipscomb County to drive my vehicle back and forth to work if my license is suspended after a DUI? Eligibility for a hardship license depends on the specifics of your case and Texas DPS regulations. Consult with a DUI attorney to determine your eligibility and navigate the application process.
3. What is the best way to contest the impoundment of my vehicle in Lipscomb County after a DUI arrest? Consult with a qualified DUI attorney. They can review the details of your arrest and advise you on whether there are grounds to challenge the impoundment, such as improper procedures or lack of probable cause.