Randall County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Randall County

After a DUI arrest in Randall County, Texas, one of the most immediate concerns is retrieving your vehicle. Vehicles are typically impounded following a DUI arrest to ensure public safety and to prevent further illegal activity involving the vehicle. Understanding the process for locating, claiming, and retrieving your vehicle can save you time and money, and prevent additional complications.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is determining where your vehicle was towed. The arresting officer should provide documentation indicating the name of the towing company and its location. If this information isn't readily available, you can contact the Randall County Sheriff's Office for assistance.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork — the tow company is often listed on the documents provided at the time of your arrest. Look closely at any forms given to you by the arresting officer.
• Call the Randall County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line — Deputies can direct you to the impound location.
• Reference your booking number - Provide the booking number to help the Sheriff's Office locate your record quickly.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, gather all necessary documents to avoid delays or additional trips. Impound lots in Texas have strict requirements before releasing a vehicle.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or a licensed person picking it up for you)
• Vehicle registration or title
• Proof of insurance
• Payment for fees

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or you don't have a valid driver's license, you can still retrieve your vehicle by having a licensed individual do so on your behalf.

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it.
• They need: their valid license, a signed authorization letter from you, vehicle title or registration

Costs & Fees in Randall County

Towing and storage fees in Texas are regulated by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). For standard passenger vehicles (light duty, 10,000 lbs or less), maximum fees are set biennially. As of the latest regulations, a standard light-duty tow can cost up to $272.00, with daily storage fees capped at $22.85. An impoundment fee can also be assessed at $22.85, and a notification fee (one-time) of $50.00 may apply. Government or law enforcement fees may also be added.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize expenses. Under TDLR rules, a Vehicle Storage Facility (VSF) can only charge for a second day of storage if the vehicle is on the lot for more than 12 hours, even if it spans two calendar days.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Most facilities accept cash and major credit cards, but some may also accept money orders. Confirming payment options ahead of time can prevent unnecessary trips or delays.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the total cost of retrieving your vehicle. Immediate action is crucial to minimize expenses.

After 30 Days

In Texas, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period, the impound lot has the right to initiate a lien sale to recover outstanding fees. This typically occurs after 30 days. To avoid losing your vehicle, act promptly to retrieve it.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're facing financial difficulties and struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider the following options:

• Contact a family member or friend to help cover costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available (some offer this).

If You Believe Your Vehicle Was Improperly Towed

If you believe your vehicle was towed without probable cause, you have the right to request a tow hearing in the Justice of the Peace court. In Randall County, this request would typically be filed with the JP 4 court located at the Justice Center in Canyon. This request must be made within 14 days of the tow.

After Retrieval

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot.
• Document any damage with photos.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away. Thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while in the care of the impound lot. Document any issues with photographs and report them to the lot manager in writing before leaving the premises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the Randall County Jail's "blackout" periods? A: The Randall County Jail experiences "blackout" periods during staff shift changes, typically between 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM. During these times, the processing of releases and bond payments is often suspended. Avoid these times if possible.

Q: Where is Canyon Towing located, the primary impound lot for Randall County? A: Canyon Towing is located at 24430 US-87 in Canyon, TX. Call 806-655-3516 for more information.

Q: Where do I file a tow hearing request in Randall County? A: In Randall County, a tow hearing request would typically be filed with the JP 4 court located at the Justice Center in Canyon.