How to Retrieve Your Vehicle After Towing or Impoundment

Getting your vehicle towed or impounded can be frustrating, expensive, and inconvenient, whether due to a DWI arrest, parking violation, or traffic stop. However, knowing the steps to retrieve your car efficiently can save you time, money, and added stress. This guide walks you through what to do and what to expect when reclaiming your vehicle.

Step 1: Identify Where Your Vehicle Was Taken

Problem

After your vehicle is towed, one of the first challenges is figuring out where it’s being held.

Solution

  • Check the Tow Notice: If you were present when your car was towed, the officer or towing company should have provided paperwork with the location.
  • Contact Local Law Enforcement: Call the non-emergency police line and ask which tow yard your vehicle was taken to. Provide your license plate number or vehicle identification number (VIN).
  • Search Online: Some cities, like Houston, have online tools to locate impounded vehicles.

Step 2: Gather the Required Documentation

Problem

Towing and impound lots require proof of ownership before releasing a vehicle. Arriving unprepared can delay the process.

Solution

Make sure you bring:

  1. Government-Issued ID: A driver’s license, passport, or other official ID.
  2. Proof of Vehicle Ownership:
    • Vehicle registration.
    • Title (if registration isn’t available).
  3. Proof of Insurance: A current auto insurance card or policy.
  4. Payment Method: Tow yards often require payment in cash, credit, or certified funds for towing and storage fees.

Step 3: Understand the Costs

Problem

Towing and storage fees can quickly add up, especially if you wait too long to retrieve your car.

Solution

  • Towing Fee: This is the cost of transporting your car to the impound lot.
  • Storage Fee: Charged daily while your car remains in the impound yard.
  • Release Fee: Some lots charge an administrative fee for processing your vehicle’s release.

Key Tip: Act quickly—fees increase the longer your vehicle stays in the impound lot.

Step 4: Retrieve Your Vehicle

Problem

Many people are surprised by additional requirements or restrictions when they arrive at the tow yard.

Solution

  1. Contact the Tow Yard First: Call ahead to confirm:
    • The documents and payment methods they accept.
    • Their hours of operation.
  2. Be Polite and Patient: Employees at impound lots deal with frustrated customers daily. Remaining calm can help the process go more smoothly.
  3. Inspect Your Vehicle: Before leaving the lot, check for damage and ensure all your belongings are intact. Report any issues immediately.

Step 5: Know Your Rights and Deadlines

Problem

If you can’t retrieve your vehicle immediately or believe it was towed unlawfully, you may face additional challenges.

Solution

  • Request a Hearing: In Texas, you can request a hearing to contest the legality of the tow within 14 days. Contact the local Justice of the Peace Court for details.
  • Avoid Abandonment: If you don’t claim your vehicle within a set period (usually 30-45 days), it may be sold or scrapped.

Step 6: Prevent Future Towing

Problem

Repeated towing incidents can become a costly cycle.

Solution

  • Pay fines and parking tickets promptly to avoid license suspensions or towing.
  • Ensure your vehicle’s registration, inspection, and insurance are up to date.
  • Avoid parking in unauthorized zones or for extended periods in restricted areas.

Why an Attorney Can Help in Certain Cases

If your car was towed due to a DWI arrest or another legal issue, the situation might involve more than just retrieving your vehicle. An experienced attorney can:

  • Challenge the legality of the stop or arrest.
  • Contest impoundment fees if the tow was unlawful.
  • Provide guidance on avoiding further penalties.

Don’t Let Impoundment Disrupt Your Life

At David Smith Law Firm, PLLC, we understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with vehicle impoundment, especially when tied to legal issues like a DWI. We’re here to help you navigate the process efficiently and protect your rights.

📞 Contact us today for a free consultation! Visit https://www.davidsmith.law/contact-us/ to discuss your situation and next steps.

Your vehicle—and your peace of mind—are worth fighting for.