No one wants to find out that their vehicle has been impounded, but if you find yourself in that situation, it’s essential that you know exactly what to do. Understanding the steps required to retrieve your vehicle can make the process less stressful and help you get back on the road as quickly as possible. Here’s a comprehensive guide from our experts at Barnett’s Towing on what to do if your vehicle has been impounded.
Step 1: Gather Necessary Documents
To have your vehicle released from the impoundment agency, you or your spouse must present several documents to prove that you are the owner and legally can recover it. These include:
- Valid Driver’s License: Make sure you bring your current and valid driver’s license. It cannot be expired or otherwise invalid. If your spouse is getting your vehicle back, they must also present their valid driver’s license.
- Proof of Current Vehicle Registration: This document proves that the vehicle is legally registered in your name. If you don’t have the current registration, you can bring a valid title with your name as the owner.
- Proof of Financial Responsibility: You must provide proof that the vehicle is in compliance with financial responsibility requirements, such as insurance documentation.
Without these documents, the impounding agency will not release your vehicle, so double-check that you have everything before heading to the impound lot.
Step 2: Address Legal Requirements
If you were legally obligated to install an ignition interlock device, this can be done at the impounding agency facility during business hours. The ignition interlock device prevents the vehicle from starting if the driver’s breath alcohol concentration exceeds a preset limit.
To recover your vehicle after the installation of the ignition interlock device, you must provide proof that a functioning system has been installed in your vehicle. This proof must be presented to the impounding agency before your vehicle can be released.
Step 3: Understand Your Financial Responsibilities
As the owner of the vehicle, you are responsible for several fees associated with the impoundment. These include:
- Immobilization Fees: Costs incurred for securing the vehicle to prevent it from being moved.
- Towing Fees: Charges for transporting the vehicle to the impound lot.
- Storage Fees: Daily charges for keeping the vehicle at the impound facility.
- Administrative Charges: Any additional fees imposed by the impounding agency for processing the impoundment.
You should be prepared to pay for these costs at the impound lot. Your vehicle will not be released until all fees are paid in full.
Step 4: Retrieve Your Vehicle
Once you have gathered the necessary documents, addressed any legal requirements, and paid all associated fees, you can go to the impound lot to get your vehicle back. Be sure to visit the impound facility during their business hours to avoid any delays.
Contact Barnett’s Towing for Specialty Towing Services in Arizona
At Barnett’s Towing, we understand that dealing with an impounded vehicle can be stressful. By following these steps and being prepared, you can navigate the process more efficiently and get back on the road as soon as possible. Contact us today to learn more about our towing services and get your questions about impounding a vehicle answered.
