What to Do When Your Car is Impounded After a DUI Arrest in Arizona

Feature Article: Understanding Arizona's Impoundment Law After a DUI Arrest

Introduction

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious crime in Arizona, and the consequences can be severe. One of these consequences is the impoundment of your vehicle for up to 20 days, as per Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) 28-3511. Having your car impounded after a DUI arrest can be stressful and overwhelming, but it's important to understand the law and your options. In this feature article, we will explore Arizona's impoundment law and what you can do if your car has been impounded after a DUI arrest.

What is Arizona's Impoundment Law?

A.R.S. 28-3511 allows law enforcement officers to impound a vehicle if the driver has been arrested for DUI and has a suspended, revoked, or canceled license. The impoundment period can last for up to 20 days, and the driver is responsible for all towing, storage, and administrative fees associated with the impoundment.

Reasons why a Vehicle May Be Impounded after a DUI Arrest

There are several reasons why a vehicle may be impounded after a DUI arrest:

1. Suspended, Revoked, or Canceled License

If a driver has a suspended, revoked, or canceled license at the time of their DUI arrest, their vehicle may be impounded under A.R.S. 28-3511.

2. Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) over 0.08%

If a driver's BAC is over 0.08%, they may face an automatic license suspension for 90 days. In this case, their vehicle may be impounded under A.R.S. 28-3511.

3. Aggravated DUI

If a driver is facing charges of aggravated DUI, their vehicle may be impounded until their case is resolved.

4. Transporting a Child Under 15 Years Old

If a driver is arrested for DUI while transporting a child under the age of 15, their vehicle may be impounded under A.R.S. 28-3511.

What Should You Do If Your Car Has Been Impounded?

If your car has been impounded after a DUI arrest, here are some steps you can take:

1. Determine Where Your Car Has Been Impounded

The impound lot may be located on private property or may be part of a tow company's facility. You can contact your local law enforcement agency to find out where your car has been impounded.

2. Obtain a Release Form from the Impound Lot

To get your car back, you will need to obtain a release form from the impound lot. The release form will indicate the fees and paperwork required to retrieve your impounded vehicle.

3. Pay the Fees

You will need to pay all fees before you can retrieve your impounded vehicle. The fees may include towing, storage, and administrative fees.

4. Provide Proof of Ownership and Insurance

You will need to provide proof of ownership and insurance before you can retrieve your car. This may include your vehicle registration, driver's license, and insurance papers.

5. Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you have obtained the release form, paid the fees, and provided the necessary paperwork, you can retrieve your impounded vehicle.

Conclusion

A car impoundment can be a significant inconvenience, but it's a consequence of DUI arrests in Arizona. If your vehicle has been impounded after a DUI arrest, it's important to take the necessary steps to retrieve it. Be sure to gather all the required paperwork, pay the fees, and comply with all impoundment requirements. For more information on DUI arrests and impoundment laws in Arizona, visit Arja Shah Law.