Travis County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Travis County

Being arrested for DUI in Travis County can be a disorienting experience, and one of the immediate concerns is often: "What happens to my car?" Law enforcement typically impounds vehicles after a DUI arrest for several reasons, including public safety and to prevent the driver from operating the vehicle while intoxicated. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to locate, retrieve, and handle the costs associated with getting your car back.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is determining where your vehicle was towed. The arresting officer should provide you with documentation indicating the towing company and its location. If you don't have this information readily available, don't panic. There are several ways to track down your vehicle.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The most direct way is to carefully review the paperwork provided by the arresting officer. The name and contact information for the towing company used should be listed.
• Call the Travis County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can't locate the paperwork, contact the Travis County Sheriff's Office. Their non-emergency number can be found on the Travis County Sheriff's Office website. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and the date and location of your arrest.
• Reference your booking number: When contacting the Sheriff's Office, having your booking number readily available will expedite the process. This number is assigned when you are processed at the jail.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, you'll need to gather the necessary documents to retrieve it. Be prepared, as impound lots require specific paperwork before releasing a vehicle.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: You'll need to provide proof of ownership, such as the vehicle's registration or title.
• Proof of insurance: Current proof of insurance for the vehicle is required. Texas law requires drivers to maintain financial responsibility. See Transportation Code §601.051.
• 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 due to the DUI arrest, you cannot personally retrieve the vehicle. However, you have options:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A licensed individual can pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you explicitly granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle, and the vehicle's title or registration. The impound lot may have specific requirements for the authorization letter, so call ahead to confirm.

Costs & Fees in Travis County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the cost structure is crucial. While specific rates vary between towing companies, there are general guidelines.

Typical towing fees in Texas range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees typically run between $25 and $50 per day. It's imperative to contact the specific impound lot holding your vehicle to confirm their exact fee schedule before you go.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily, starting from the moment your vehicle is towed. Prompt action is essential to minimize expenses.

New vehicle storage facility (VSF) storage fees went into effect January 1, 2024, so be sure to ask the impound lot for their current rates.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm which payment methods they accept. Most accept cash, and some accept credit cards or money orders. Be prepared to pay the full amount due before the vehicle will be released.

Timeline

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

Act Immediately

As mentioned earlier, storage fees begin accumulating as soon as your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the total cost.

After 30 Days

In Texas, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period, the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. The specific timeframe varies, but generally, after 30 days, the lot can begin the process of obtaining a legal right to sell the vehicle. Do everything possible to retrieve your vehicle before it reaches this stage.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

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

• Contact a family member or friend: Reach out to your support network and ask if they can help cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans or installment options. It's worth inquiring about this possibility, although it is not guaranteed.
• Consult with your attorney: Discuss your situation with your attorney. In some cases, they may be able to negotiate the fees on your behalf or challenge the legality of the impound.

After Retrieval

Before driving away from the impound lot, take these crucial steps:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Thoroughly examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while in the impound lot's possession.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear and detailed photographs of any scratches, dents, 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 you discovered and provide them with a written report, including the photographs you took. This documentation is essential if you need to file a claim for damages later.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where in Austin are ALR hearings held? ALR hearings are held at the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) Headquarters, located at 300 W. 15th Street, Suite 504, Austin, TX 78701. However, note that many hearings are now conducted virtually via Zoom.
2. How long does it typically take for a first-time DWI case to resolve in Travis County? Due to blood test backlogs and other factors, a typical first-time DWI case in Travis County often takes one year to resolve.
3. What is the standard driving limit for an Occupational Driver's License (ODL) in Travis County? By default, driving is often limited to 4 hours in any 24-hour period. However, a petitioner can request a waiver to drive up to 12 hours in any 24-hour period with specific justification.