Mills County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Mills County

A DUI arrest in Mills County, Texas, can trigger a cascade of stressful events. Besides the legal ramifications, one immediate concern is getting your vehicle back from impound. This guide provides a step-by-step breakdown of the process, helping you navigate the requirements, costs, and timeline involved in retrieving your car. Acting quickly is essential to minimize storage fees and prevent further complications.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you are arrested for DUI, your vehicle is typically impounded for several reasons. First, it prevents you from driving while intoxicated. Second, it ensures the vehicle is safely stored until you are legally able to retrieve it. After your arrest, the vehicle is towed to an impound lot, where it will remain until you (or someone authorized by you) claims it. Understanding this initial process is the first step toward getting your car back.

Where Is Your Car?

Locating your vehicle is the first step in the retrieval process. Here are the most likely locations where your car might be impounded:

• Harris County Impound: 9310 Mills Rd, Houston, TX 77070. Phone: (832) 996-9272
• Willis Towing and Recovery: 705 E Central Ave, Comanche, TX 76442. Phone: (817) 371-0911

How to Find Your Vehicle

If you are unsure where your vehicle was towed, here are a few ways to find out:

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with paperwork that includes the name and contact information of the towing company.
• Call the Mills County Sheriff's Office: Contact the Mills County Sheriff’s Office at (325) 648-2245. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and vehicle description, and they may be able to assist you in locating your vehicle. The Mills County Sheriff’s Office is located at 2111 Priddy Rd, Goldthwaite, TX 76844.
• Reference Your Booking Number: Your booking number, assigned during the jail intake process, can help identify your records with the Mills County Sheriff's Office.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, gather all the necessary documents to avoid delays and additional trips.

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License: 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 need to show 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, but you'll need someone else to do it for you.

• Have a Licensed Friend or Family Member Retrieve It: Ask a friend or family member with a valid driver's license to pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• They Need:
• Their valid driver's license.
• A signed authorization letter from you, granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle.
• A copy of the vehicle title or registration to prove ownership.

Costs & Fees in Mills County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the costs involved is crucial.

• Harris County Impound: Daily Fee: $N/A
• Willis Towing and Recovery: Daily Fee: $N/A

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day, starting the moment your vehicle is towed. The longer you wait, the more you'll have to pay. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize these expenses.

Payment

Call the specific impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Most lots accept cash, and some may accept credit cards or money orders. Inquire about accepted forms of payment to avoid any issues when you arrive.

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 increases the amount you owe. Contact the impound lot as soon as possible to determine the exact fees and arrange for retrieval.

After 30 Days

In Texas, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot has the right to initiate a lien sale. This means they can sell your vehicle to recover the unpaid towing and storage fees. Do not let it reach this point. Take action immediately to avoid losing your vehicle permanently.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Financial constraints can make retrieving your vehicle challenging. Here are some options to consider if you are struggling to afford the fees:

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Reach out to family members or friends who may be willing to help cover the costs.
• Ask the Impound Lot About a Payment Plan: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. Inquire about this option to see if it's available.
• Consult with Your Attorney: Your attorney may be able to negotiate the fees with the impound lot or challenge them in court if they are unreasonable.

After Retrieval

Once you've paid the fees and retrieved your vehicle, take the following steps:

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately: Before leaving the impound lot, carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in their care.
• Document Any Damage with Photos: Take photos of any dents, scratches, or other damage you find.
• Report Any Damage to the Lot Manager in Writing: Notify the impound lot manager in writing about any damage you discovered before you drive away. This documentation can be crucial if you need to file a claim for damages later.

By following these steps, you can navigate the process of retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Mills County and minimize potential complications and expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does the Harris County Impound hold vehicles before auctioning them off? A: Impound lots typically initiate a lien sale after 30 days of a vehicle being unclaimed. Contact Harris County Impound directly at (832) 996-9272 for their specific policies.

Q: Can I get a temporary permit to drive my car from Willis Towing and Recovery if my license is suspended? A: No. A temporary permit is not available to drive a vehicle from the impound lot if your license is suspended. A licensed driver must retrieve the vehicle.

Q: What happens if I can't afford to pay the impound fees at Willis Towing and Recovery? A: Contact Willis Towing and Recovery to inquire about payment plan options. You can also consult with your attorney to explore potential legal avenues or fee negotiation.