Titus County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Titus County

A DUI arrest in Titus County, Texas, is a stressful event, and dealing with the aftermath can feel overwhelming. One immediate concern is often the impounded vehicle. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process to help you retrieve your car as quickly and efficiently as possible. Understanding the procedures and potential costs involved can save you both time and money.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI in Titus County, your vehicle is typically impounded. This is standard procedure to ensure public safety and prevent further operation of the vehicle by an impaired driver. The Titus County Sheriff's Office will arrange for a towing company to transport your vehicle to a designated impound lot. It's crucial to act quickly to retrieve your vehicle, as storage fees accumulate daily.

Where Is Your Car?

Locating your vehicle is the first step in the retrieval process. In Titus County, your car may have been towed to one of several impound lots. Here are some possibilities:

• Tommy's Towing and Repair, Inc.: 23029 I-20 Frontage Rd, Wills Point, TX 75169
• A-1 Anderson wrecker service: 911 E 14th St, Mt Pleasant, TX 75455

How to Find Your Vehicle

If you're unsure where your vehicle was towed, here are a few methods to try:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating the name of the towing company and the impound lot where your vehicle was taken. Look for this information on your release paperwork.
• Call the Titus County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: You can contact the Titus County Sheriff's Office at (903) 572-6641. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and vehicle information, and they may be able to tell you where your car is located.
• Reference your booking number: Your booking number from the Titus County Jail can also help locate your vehicle. Provide this number to the Sheriff's Office or potential impound lots.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, gather the necessary documents to avoid any delays or complications.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid 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 that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all applicable towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

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

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A licensed friend or family member can retrieve the vehicle for you.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license.
• A signed authorization letter from you, granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle.
• The vehicle title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Titus County

Understanding the costs associated with vehicle impoundment is crucial. Storage fees accumulate quickly, so prompt action is essential.

Tommy's Towing and Repair, Inc. and A-1 Anderson wrecker service daily storage fees are N/A.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize expenses.

Payment

Contact the impound lot before you go to confirm their accepted payment methods. Some lots accept cash, while others may accept credit cards or money orders. It's best to be prepared to avoid any last-minute issues.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the amount you'll 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 outstanding towing and storage fees. To avoid this, act quickly and retrieve your vehicle as soon as possible.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

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

• Contact a family member or friend: Reach out to family members or friends who may be able to help you 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. It's worth inquiring about this possibility.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate with the impound lot to reduce the fees or challenge the legality of the impoundment if there were any procedural errors.

After Retrieval

Before driving away from the impound lot, take the following precautions:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take photos of any damage you find, as this will serve as evidence if you need to file a claim.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing: Before leaving the lot, notify the manager in writing about any damage you've discovered. This creates a record of your complaint and strengthens your position if you need to pursue further action.

Retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Titus County requires prompt action and careful attention to detail. By following these steps, you can navigate the process efficiently and minimize the financial burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

1How long does the Titus County Jail typically hold vehicles after a DUI arrest? The Titus County Jail does not hold vehicles. Your vehicle will be towed to an impound lot. You must contact the towing company to arrange for retrieval.

2What happens if I don't have the money to pay for my impounded vehicle in Titus County? Explore options like borrowing from family/friends, inquiring about payment plans with the impound lot, or consulting your attorney about potential fee negotiation. Failure to pay can result in the lot selling your vehicle.

3Can I get a temporary hardship license to drive my impounded vehicle home in Titus County? Texas law does not allow a temporary hardship license to retrieve an impounded vehicle. You must have a valid license or have a licensed individual retrieve the vehicle for you. Contact the Texas Department of Public Safety at 1906 N Jefferson Ave, Mt Pleasant, TX 75455, or call (903) 575-5383 for license reinstatement information.