Navarro County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Navarro County

After a DUI arrest in Navarro County, Texas, one of the most pressing concerns is retrieving your vehicle. Vehicles are typically impounded following a DUI arrest to ensure public safety and prevent further potential offenses. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to locate, retrieve, and handle the associated costs of getting your car back.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

Following your arrest for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Navarro County, your vehicle was likely towed and impounded. The arresting officer arranges for the vehicle to be towed to a designated impound lot. This is a standard procedure, and understanding the process will help you navigate the steps required to reclaim your vehicle as quickly as possible. The longer your vehicle remains impounded, the more you'll have to pay in storage fees.

Where Is Your Car?

Several towing companies and vehicle storage facilities (VSFs) operate in Navarro County. Your vehicle could be at any of them, depending on which company was called by the arresting officer. Here are a few possibilities:

• Blakes recovery: 4430 State Hwy 31 W, Corsicana, TX 75110
• Texas Towing: 518 W Tyler St, Mexia, TX 76667
• Texas Towing & Truck Repair: 1900 S Business 45, Corsicana, TX 75110
• B & W Tire & Towing Inc: 1310 N Business 45, Corsicana, TX 75110

How to Find Your Vehicle

1. Check your arrest paperwork: The paperwork provided at the time of your arrest should include the name and contact information of the towing company that took your vehicle.
2. Call the Navarro County Sheriff's Office non-emergency dispatch line: If you cannot locate the information on your paperwork, call the Navarro County Sheriff's Office at (903) 654-3001. Provide them with your name, date of birth, vehicle license plate number, or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). They can access the wrecker log and provide the name and contact information for the specific towing service.
3. Reference your booking number: Having your booking number ready when you call can help expedite the process.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, gather all the necessary documents to ensure a smooth retrieval process. Failing to provide the required documentation will result in denial of release and further storage fees.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid, state-issued driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is essential. Bring your vehicle registration or title.
• Proof of insurance: You must provide proof of current and valid auto insurance for the vehicle.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all applicable towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your driver's license is suspended or you do not have a valid license for any reason, you can still have someone else retrieve the vehicle for you.

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A licensed driver can 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 in your name.

Costs & Fees in Navarro County

Retrieving your vehicle involves several costs, including towing fees, daily storage fees, and administrative charges. These fees can add up quickly, so it's crucial to act promptly.

• Tow Fee: $225.00 base for Light Duty (<10,000 lbs) + $4.00 per loaded mile
• Daily Storage Rate: $20.00 per day (vehicles < 25 ft); $35.00 per day (vehicles > 25 ft)
• Admin/Processing Fee: $50.00 Notification Fee; $20.00 Impound/Preservation Fee

Storage fees accumulate every day, starting from the moment your vehicle is towed. The daily storage rate at most impound lots in Navarro County is around $20.00 per day for vehicles less than 25 feet in length. For larger vehicles, the daily rate can be higher. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize these costs.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Most facilities accept cash, debit cards, and major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard). However, it's always best to verify before arriving.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day your vehicle remains at the impound lot, the costs increase. Contact the towing company as soon as possible to initiate the retrieval process.

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 to recover the outstanding fees. This means they can sell your vehicle to cover the costs. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are facing financial hardship and struggling to afford the impound fees, consider the following options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance from family members or friends to help cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer a payment plan, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. Inquire about this possibility.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate the fees or challenge their validity.

After Retrieval

Before leaving the impound lot with your vehicle, take the following precautions:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take photos of any dents, scratches, or other damage.
• 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 in case you need to file a claim for damages.

Frequently Asked Questions

1Can I get my belongings out of my car before I pay the impound fees in Navarro County? Generally, yes. Texas law allows you to retrieve personal belongings from your impounded vehicle without paying the impound fees first. However, the impound lot may require you to sign a form stating that you are only removing personal items and not taking possession of the vehicle.

2What happens if I can't afford to get my car out of impound in Navarro County? If you cannot afford to retrieve your vehicle, it may be subject to a lien sale after a certain period (usually 30 days). The impound lot will sell the vehicle to cover the outstanding fees. You may want to explore options like borrowing money or seeking legal assistance.

3Can I challenge the impound fees in Navarro County if I believe they are too high? Yes, you have the right to challenge impound fees if you believe they are unreasonable or not in accordance with Texas law. Consult with an attorney to discuss your options and the process for challenging the fees.