Matagorda County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Matagorda County

Being arrested for a DUI in Matagorda County, Texas is a stressful experience. On top of the legal hurdles ahead, you're likely dealing with the immediate problem of getting your vehicle back. This guide provides practical steps you can take to retrieve your impounded car quickly and efficiently. Time is of the essence – storage fees accumulate daily!

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI in Matagorda County, your vehicle is often impounded for a few key reasons:

• Public Safety: Preventing you from driving under the influence again.
• Evidence: The vehicle might be needed as evidence in your case.
• Standard Procedure: Impoundment is a common practice following a DUI arrest.

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

Where Is Your Car?

Knowing where your car is located is critical to starting the retrieval process. Here are impound lot options in the area.

• Momentum Roadside Services: 3730 Kirby Dr # 1200, Houston, TX 77098. Phone: (281) 602-8213.
• Jackson Services: 2100 Golden Ave, Bay City, TX 77414. Phone: (979) 244-1831.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• 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 Matagorda County Sheriff's Office: If you can't find the information on your paperwork, contact the Matagorda County Sheriff’s Office at (979) 245-5526. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and date of arrest, and they should be able to tell you where your vehicle was towed.
• Reference Your Booking Number: Having your booking number ready when you call can expedite the process.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your car is, gather the necessary documents to avoid any delays at the impound lot.

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'll need to prove ownership of the vehicle. Bring the current vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of Insurance: You must show proof of current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay the towing and storage fees (see below for details).

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or you don't have a valid license for any reason, you can still have someone else retrieve the vehicle 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: Write a letter authorizing the person to pick up the vehicle on your behalf. Be sure to include your name, the vehicle's information (make, model, VIN), and the person's name.
• Vehicle Title or Registration: They will still need to provide proof of ownership.

Costs & Fees in Matagorda County

Retrieving your vehicle will involve paying towing and storage fees. Contact Momentum Roadside Services or Jackson Services for information about the daily storage rate.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize the costs!

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm which payment methods they accept. Most accept cash, but some may also accept credit cards or money orders. Don't assume – verify before you go.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when it comes to retrieving your impounded vehicle.

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes adds to the total cost. Contact the relevant impound lot as soon as possible.

After 30 Days

In Texas, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period (typically 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This means they can sell your vehicle to the public. Do not let it reach this point!

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Facing a DUI can strain your finances. If you're struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider these options:

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Ask for assistance from someone you trust.
• Ask About a Payment Plan: Some impound lots may be willing to work out a payment plan, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. It doesn't hurt to ask.
• Consult with Your Attorney: Your DUI attorney may be able to negotiate with the impound lot on your behalf or challenge the fees in court if they are unreasonable.

After Retrieval

Before driving your vehicle off the lot, take these important steps:

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately: Carefully inspect the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document Any Damage: Take photos of any damage you find.
• Report Any Damage in Writing: Notify the lot manager of any damage in writing before you drive away. Get a copy of the written report for your records. This will be crucial if you need to file a claim later.

By following these steps, you can navigate the process of retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Matagorda County, Texas, as smoothly and efficiently as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: How long does the impound lot have to hold my vehicle in Matagorda County?*A: In Texas, impound lots can initiate a lien sale process if a vehicle is unclaimed for 30 days. It's crucial to act quickly to avoid losing your vehicle.

**Q: What happens if I can't afford to get my car out of impound in Matagorda County?*A: Contact family or friends for financial help, inquire about a payment plan with the impound lot, or consult your DUI attorney about potential legal options.

**Q: Can someone else pick up my car for me from the impound lot in Matagorda County?*A: Yes, if you provide them with a signed authorization letter, a copy of your vehicle registration or title, and they have a valid driver's license.