Roberts County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Roberts County

A DUI arrest in Roberts County, Texas, is a stressful and confusing experience. One immediate concern is often: "Where's my car, and how do I get it back?" This guide provides practical information to help you navigate the vehicle impound process in Roberts County after a DUI arrest.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Texas, your vehicle is typically impounded. This is done for several reasons:

• Public Safety: Removing an impaired driver and their vehicle from the road prevents further risk.
• Evidence Preservation: The vehicle may be held as evidence in your DUI case.
• Liability: The impound lot assumes responsibility for the vehicle's safekeeping.

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

Where Is Your Car?

Finding your vehicle is the top priority. Roberts County is a relatively small county, so your vehicle may have been towed to a nearby city's impound lot. Here's how to find out:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The paperwork provided by the arresting officer should list the name of the towing company and possibly the impound lot where your vehicle was taken. This is the first place you should look.
• Call the Roberts County Sheriff's Office: If you can't find the information on your paperwork, call the Roberts County Sheriff's Office at (806) 868-3121. They can tell you where your vehicle was towed. Their business hours are Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM.
• Reference Your Booking Number: When you call, have your booking number ready. This will help them quickly locate your vehicle's impound location.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Gathering the necessary documents is crucial for a smooth retrieval process. You'll typically need:

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle Registration or Title: Proof that you own the vehicle. If you don't have the registration, the vehicle title will suffice.
• Proof of Insurance: Current insurance policy for the vehicle.
• Payment for Fees: Impound lots accept various payment methods, but it's best to be prepared with both cash and a credit card.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest (which is common), you have options:

• Have Someone Else Pick It Up: A friend or family member with a valid license can retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.
• They Need:
• Their valid driver's license.
• A signed authorization letter from you, allowing them to retrieve the vehicle. A simple signed and dated note is usually sufficient.
• Vehicle title or registration to prove ownership.

Costs & Fees in Roberts County

The costs associated with vehicle impound can quickly add up, so understanding them is crucial.

Typical Fees

• Towing Fee: Expect this to be in the range of $150-$300 in Texas.
• Daily Storage Fee: This can range from $25-$50 per day. This fee accrues daily, so prompt action is essential.
• Administrative Fees: These fees can vary, so inquire about the specific amount.

IMPORTANT: Fees accumulate daily. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes to retrieve your car. Act quickly!

Payment

Call the impound lot ahead of time to confirm their accepted payment methods (cash, credit card, or money order).

Timeline

Time is of the essence when dealing with vehicle impound.

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day costs more money. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize these fees.

After 30 Days

In Texas, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a specific period (often 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale. This means they can sell your vehicle to recover the accrued fees. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

The costs of retrieving your vehicle can be overwhelming, especially after a DUI arrest. Here are some options:

• Contact Family or Friends: Reach out to family members or friends to see if they can help cover the costs.
• Ask About Payment Plans: Some impound lots may offer payment plans. Inquire about this possibility, but be aware of potential interest charges.
• Consult with Your Attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate or challenge the fees.

After Retrieval

Once you've retrieved your vehicle, take these important steps:

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately: Before leaving the lot, thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document Any Damage with Photos: Take clear photos and notes of any dents, scratches, or other damage.
• Report Any Damage to the Lot Manager in Writing: Report any damage to the impound lot manager immediately and obtain a written acknowledgment of your report before you drive away. This documentation is crucial if you need to file a claim for damages later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to get my car out of impound in Roberts County? A: While specific timelines can vary, impound lots in Texas typically start a lien sale process after 30 days of unpaid storage fees. It's crucial to retrieve your vehicle as soon as possible to avoid this.

Q: What if I can't afford to get my car out of impound in Roberts County? A: Explore options such as borrowing money from family or friends, inquiring about payment plans with the impound lot, or consulting with your attorney to see if fees can be negotiated.

Q: Can someone else pick up my car for me if my license is suspended in Roberts County? A: Yes, a licensed driver can retrieve your vehicle. They will need their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you, and proof of ownership (vehicle title or registration).