Tom Green County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Tom Green County

Being arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Tom Green County, Texas, is a stressful experience. One immediate concern is often the impoundment of your vehicle. Understanding the process for retrieving your car, the associated costs, and the necessary documentation is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to navigating vehicle retrieval in Tom Green County.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you are arrested for DUI, your vehicle is typically impounded for several reasons. These include preventing further illegal operation of the vehicle, preserving it as potential evidence, and ensuring public safety. The Tom Green County Sheriff's Office or the San Angelo Police Department will arrange for a towing company to remove the vehicle from the scene. You will be responsible for all associated towing and storage fees. After the vehicle is impounded, it will be held at a designated impound lot until you, or someone authorized by you, can retrieve it.

Where Is Your Car?

Your vehicle will be taken to one of the authorized impound lots in San Angelo. Here are two possible locations:

• DustBowl Transport and Recovery service: 261 N Oxford Dr, San Angelo, TX 76901. Phone: N/A
• Entrusted Towing and Recovery LLC: 3407 Lindenwood Dr, San Angelo, TX 76904. Phone: N/A

How to Find Your Vehicle

Locating your vehicle quickly is essential to minimize storage fees. Here are a few methods:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should provide documentation indicating the name of the towing company and the location where your vehicle was impounded.
• Call the Tom Green County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: Contact the Tom Green County Sheriff's Office Dispatch to inquire about the location of your vehicle.
• Reference your booking number: Provide your booking number (obtained during the booking process at the Tom Green County Detention Center) to help them locate your vehicle's record. You can also use the Tom Green County Sheriff's Office inmate roster to find information related to your arrest.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, gather all the necessary documentation to avoid delays.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You will need to present a valid driver's license to prove your identity and authorization to retrieve the vehicle.
• Vehicle registration or title: Provide either the vehicle's registration or title to prove ownership.
• Proof of insurance: You must show proof of current and valid insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot personally retrieve the vehicle. In this case:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: Designate a licensed driver to 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.
• The vehicle title or registration, proving ownership.

Costs & Fees in Tom Green County

Retrieving your vehicle involves several costs, including towing fees and daily storage charges. Contact the specific impound lot for their exact fees. Be aware that storage fees accrue daily, so acting quickly is crucial.

• Daily Storage Fee: $N/A (DustBowl Transport and Recovery service).
• Daily Storage Fee: $N/A (Entrusted Towing and Recovery LLC).

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

Payment

Before heading to the impound lot, call them to confirm their accepted payment methods. Some may accept cash, credit cards, or money orders. Having the correct form of payment ready can expedite the retrieval process.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accumulating the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day your car remains in the impound lot increases the total cost. Contact the lot as soon as possible to understand their procedures and fees.

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 their costs. This means they can legally sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding fees. Do not allow this to happen.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are facing financial difficulties and cannot afford the towing and storage fees, consider the following options:

• Contact a family member or friend to help cover costs: Ask for assistance from trusted individuals who may be willing to lend you the necessary funds.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, allowing you to pay off the fees in installments. Inquire about this possibility.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, a DUI attorney may be able to negotiate or challenge the impound fees, especially if there are irregularities in the impound process.

After Retrieval

Before leaving the impound lot with your vehicle:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine your vehicle for any signs of damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photos of any dents, scratches, or other damage you find.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Notify the impound lot manager of any damage in writing before leaving the premises. This creates a record of the damage and can be helpful if you need to file a claim for compensation.

Retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Tom Green County requires prompt action and careful attention to detail. By understanding the process, gathering the necessary documents, and acting quickly, you can minimize costs and avoid further complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long do I have to retrieve my vehicle before it is sold at auction in Tom Green County? Generally, impound lots in Texas can begin the process of selling unclaimed vehicles after 30 days. Contact the specific lot holding your car for their exact policy.
2. Does the Tom Green County Sheriff's Office have a list of approved towing companies? The Tom Green County Sheriff's Office utilizes various towing companies on a rotating basis. Check your arrest paperwork for the specific company used in your case.
3. Can I get a temporary permit to drive my impounded vehicle home if my license is suspended in Tom Green County? No. You cannot legally drive the vehicle yourself with a suspended license. You must have a licensed individual retrieve the vehicle for you.