Young County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Young County

After a DUI arrest in Young County, Texas, one of the most immediate concerns is retrieving your vehicle. Vehicles are typically impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons: to prevent further operation by an intoxicated driver, as evidence in the case, or due to standard procedures following an arrest. Understanding the process and acting quickly is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications.

Where Is Your Car?

In Young County, vehicles are often towed to a designated impound lot. The primary impound and storage facility utilized by the Graham Police Department and the Young County Sheriff's Office is:

Skidmore’s Graham Auto Rebuilders (Skids) Address: Graham, TX. Phone: 940-549-2357 After-Hours Number: 940-550-4124

How to Find Your Vehicle

If you are unsure where your vehicle was towed, there are a few ways to locate it:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with paperwork indicating the name of the towing company and the location where your vehicle was taken.
• Call the Young County Sheriff's Office: You can contact the non-emergency line at 940-549-1555 to inquire about the location of your vehicle. Reference your booking number when you call.
• Reference your booking number: When you were processed at the Young County Jail located at 315 N Cliff Dr, Graham, TX 76450, a booking number was assigned to your case. This number can help the Sheriff's Office locate your vehicle information.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Retrieving your vehicle requires specific documentation and payment. Be prepared before you go to the impound lot to avoid delays.

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 either the vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: You must demonstrate that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: 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 can still retrieve your vehicle by having someone else do it for you.

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A licensed driver 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.
• The vehicle title or registration to prove ownership.

Costs & Fees in Young County

Understanding the costs associated with impoundment is critical. Storage fees accrue daily, so prompt action is essential. While specific local ordinances may adjust these figures, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) sets statewide maximums for non-consent tows.

Here are some of the fees you can expect:

• Light Duty Tow (10k lbs or less): Maximum amount set by TDLR.
• Medium Duty Tow (10,001 - 24,999 lbs): Maximum amount set by TDLR.
• Daily Storage Fee (under 25 ft): Per day, maximum amount set by TDLR. Contact Skidmore's Graham Auto Rebuilders (Skids) at 940-549-2357 to confirm the current daily rate.
• Impound Fee: Maximum amount set by TDLR.
• Notification Fee: Maximum amount set by TDLR.

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

Payment

Before heading to Skidmore’s Graham Auto Rebuilders (Skids), call them at 940-549-2357 to confirm the payment methods they accept. Most facilities accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards, but it's always best to verify in advance.

Timeline

Act Immediately

The clock starts ticking the moment your vehicle is towed. Storage fees accrue daily, and delays will significantly increase the amount you owe.

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 their costs. This means they can legally sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding fees. Do everything possible to avoid this scenario.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

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

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance in covering the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans to help you manage the expense. It is worth asking Skidmore’s Graham Auto Rebuilders (Skids) if they offer this option.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, a DUI attorney may be able to negotiate the fees or challenge their validity. Local attorneys with experience in Young County courts include Dee Hudson Peavy, Stephen E. Bristow, and Daniel Louis De La Cruz, all located in Graham.

After Retrieval

Once you've paid the fees and have your paperwork in order, you can retrieve your vehicle. However, before you drive away, take these important steps:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photos 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 in writing before you leave the premises. This will help protect your rights if you need to file a claim for damages later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to request an ALR hearing after a DUI arrest in Young County? A: You have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Failing to request a hearing within this timeframe will result in an automatic suspension of your driver's license.

Q: Where can I find out if someone is currently being held in the Young County Jail? A: Young County utilizes the NetData system for public inmate verification. This online system allows you to check the status of a defendant in real-time, including booking date and charges.

Q: What are the standard holidays when Young County implements "No-Refusal" weekends for DWI enforcement? A: Young County, like many Texas counties, typically implements "No-Refusal" enforcement periods during holidays such as New Year's Eve/Day, St. Patrick's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and the Christmas season. During these times, it's easier for law enforcement to obtain warrants for blood draws if a driver refuses a breathalyzer.