Wichita County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Wichita County

Being arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Wichita County, Texas, is a stressful experience, and one immediate consequence is the impoundment of your vehicle. This guide provides practical steps to help you locate, retrieve, and protect your rights regarding your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Wichita County. Understanding the process and acting quickly can minimize storage fees and prevent further complications.

Where Is Your Car?

When the Wichita Falls Police Department (WFPD) or the Wichita County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) arrests you for DUI, your vehicle is typically towed to the city's designated impound lot. In Wichita Falls, the exclusive contracted service provider is:

Mike's Towing 3205 Industrial Drive Wichita Falls, Texas 76306 (940) 687-8787

How to Find Your Vehicle

Several methods can help you confirm your vehicle’s location:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should provide documentation indicating the towing company and impound location.
• Call the Wichita County Sheriff's Office: Contact the WCSO non-emergency line to inquire about your vehicle’s location.
• Reference your booking number: This number can help the Sheriff's Office quickly locate your records and provide information.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

To reclaim your vehicle from Mike's Towing, you must provide specific documentation and payment.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is essential.
• Proof of insurance: Current insurance documentation matching the vehicle is required.
• Payment for fees: You must pay all accrued towing and storage fees before the vehicle is released.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you have the following 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 granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle, and the vehicle's title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Wichita County

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

Mike's Towing is the exclusive contracted service provider for the Wichita Falls Police Department.

• Daily Storage Fee: $N/A
• $25 Public Safety Towing Administration Fee mandated by city ordinance.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily, starting from the moment your vehicle is towed. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize these expenses. The longer your vehicle remains at Mike's Towing, the higher the total cost will be.

Payment

Contact Mike's Towing at (940) 687-8787 in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Most impound lots accept cash, and some may accept credit cards or money orders. Confirming this beforehand will streamline the retrieval process.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accumulating as soon as your vehicle is towed. Every day it remains impounded increases the total cost. Prioritize retrieving your vehicle to avoid unnecessary expenses.

After 30 Days

In Texas, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover unpaid fees. Do not allow the situation to reach this point. Contact Mike's Towing as soon as possible to arrange retrieval.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

The financial burden of retrieving an impounded vehicle can be significant. If you are struggling to afford the fees, consider these options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Seek assistance from loved ones to help cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans or installment options. Inquire with Mike's Towing about potential arrangements.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, a DUI attorney may be able to negotiate or challenge the impound fees on your behalf.

After Retrieval

Before leaving Mike's Towing with your vehicle, take the following precautions:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle for any signs of damage.
• Document any damage with photos: Take detailed photographs of any pre-existing or new damage to the vehicle.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Immediately notify the lot manager of any damage and obtain written documentation of your report before leaving the premises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happens if I refuse a breath or blood test in Wichita County? A: Wichita County operates under a "No Refusal" doctrine. If you refuse a breath test, officers can obtain a search warrant for a blood draw, ensuring a BAC reading is obtained in most cases.

Q: Where will I be taken after being arrested for DUI in Wichita County? A: According to the Comprehensive Operational Analysis of DUI Enforcement Protocols, Logistics, and Judicial Frameworks in Wichita County, Texas, all arrestees, regardless of the arresting agency, are taken to the Wichita County Law Enforcement Center.

Q: What are the typical costs associated with a first-time DUI in Wichita County? A: The Financial Impact Analysis of First-Offense DWI in Wichita County estimates the total cost to be between $10,000 and $15,000, including bail bond premiums, towing and impound fees, attorney fees, court fines and costs, DPS reinstatement fees, DWI education, interlock device costs, and traffic fines.