Swisher County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Swisher County

**(dui.guide - Your Guide to Navigating a DUI in Swisher, TX)*After a DUI arrest in Swisher County, Texas, one of your immediate concerns is likely getting your vehicle back. Your car was likely impounded at the time of your arrest, and understanding the retrieval process is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications. This guide provides a step-by-step explanation of how to locate, retrieve, and handle the associated costs of getting your vehicle back after a DUI arrest in Swisher County.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you are arrested for DUI in Swisher County, TX, the arresting officer will arrange to have your vehicle towed and impounded. This is standard procedure to ensure public safety and prevent further operation of the vehicle while you are impaired. The vehicle is typically held at a designated impound lot until you, or someone authorized by you, can retrieve it. It's important to understand that you are responsible for all towing and storage fees associated with the impound, regardless of the outcome of your DUI case.

Where Is Your Car?

The most crucial first step is to determine where your vehicle is being held. In the Swisher County area, your vehicle may have been towed to one of the following locations:

• Big E Towing and Recovery: 202 E 24th St, Plainview, TX 79072
• Johnny Cash Towing And Recovery: 300 E 5th St, Plainview, TX 79072

How to Find Your Vehicle

If you're 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 documentation that includes the name and contact information of the towing company used. This is the quickest and easiest way to determine the location of your vehicle.
• Call the Swisher County Sheriff's Office: You can contact the Swisher County Sheriff’s Office at (806) 995-3326. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and the date of your arrest. They may be able to provide you with the name and phone number of the towing company. The Swisher County Sheriff’s Office is located at 136 E Broadway Ave, Tulia, TX 79088.
• Reference Your Booking Number: When you were processed at the jail, you were assigned a booking number. This number can help the Sheriff's office locate information about your arrest, including where your vehicle was towed.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your vehicle is impounded, you need to gather the necessary documents to retrieve it.

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 must provide proof of ownership, such as the vehicle registration or title.
• Proof of Insurance: You must provide proof of current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• Payment for Fees: You must be prepared to pay all towing and storage fees in full.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or you don't have a valid license for any other reason, you cannot personally retrieve the vehicle. However, you can authorize someone else to pick it up on your behalf.

• Have a Licensed Friend or Family Member Retrieve It: A licensed driver can retrieve the vehicle for you, provided they have:
• 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 Swisher County

The costs associated with retrieving your vehicle can add up quickly, so it's essential to be aware of the fees involved.

• Towing Fee: This is a one-time fee charged by the towing company for towing your vehicle from the scene of the arrest to the impound lot.
• Daily Storage Fee: This is a daily fee charged by the impound lot for storing your vehicle.

Based on available data, the daily storage fees at the impound lots mentioned above are:

• Big E Towing and Recovery: Daily Fee: $N/A
• Johnny Cash Towing And Recovery: Daily Fee: $N/A

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. The longer you wait to retrieve your vehicle, the more expensive it will become. Contact the specific impound lot for the most up to date information on daily storage fees.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Most impound lots accept cash, and some may accept credit cards or money orders. Personal checks are typically not accepted.

Timeline

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

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes costs you more money. Contact the impound lot as soon as possible to arrange for retrieval.

After 30 Days

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

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, here are a few options to consider:

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Ask a family member or friend if they can help you cover the costs.
• Ask About a Payment Plan: Some impound lots may be willing to work with you on a payment plan. It's worth asking if this is an option.
• Consult with Your Attorney: Your DUI attorney may be able to negotiate the fees with the impound lot or challenge the validity of the fees in some cases.

After Retrieval

Once you have paid the fees and retrieved your vehicle, take the following precautions:

• 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 custody.
• Document Any Damage: Take photos of any damage you find.
• Report Any Damage in Writing: Immediately report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away. This will help protect your rights if you need to file a claim for damages later.

By following these steps, you can navigate the process of getting your car back after a DUI arrest in Swisher County, Texas, as smoothly and cost-effectively as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does the impound lot hold my car in Swisher County? A: Typically, the impound lot can begin lien sale proceedings after 30 days if the vehicle is unclaimed. Contact the specific lot for their exact policy.

Q: Can someone else pick up my car for me if my license is suspended after a Swisher County DUI arrest? A: Yes, a licensed driver with your written authorization, their valid license, and the vehicle's title or registration can retrieve your vehicle.

Q: What happens if I can't afford the impound fees in Swisher County? A: Contact the impound lot to discuss payment options or contact a local attorney for assistance. Every day your car sits there, the fees increase.