Have you been arrested for DUI in San Jose, California? Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys, can help when you call (408) 217-8818. We offer a confidential consultation with a DUI lawyer who can answer your questions, explain what to expect, and help you navigate the criminal justice system.
After a DUI arrest, many people are concerned about what happened to their vehicle. Whether your car was towed, impounded, or released to another licensed driver depends on the circumstances of the arrest and the decisions made by law enforcement.
Contact us today to schedule a case review with a member of our legal team. We’re ready to stand up for you when it feels like the whole world is against you.
Why Choose Ahmed & Sukaram Criminal Defense Attorneys to Help Me If I’ve Been Accused of a DUI in San Jose, CA?
If you have been arrested for DUI in San Jose, CA, Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys, is prepared to represent you throughout every stage of your case, including issues that arise immediately after the arrest, such as the towing, impoundment, or potential release of your vehicle.
When you hire us, you benefit from:
- Attorneys with 30 years of combined criminal defense experience
- Representation led by a California State Bar Certified Specialist in Criminal Law
- More than 3,000 criminal cases successfully resolved, and 50 criminal trials defended
- Attorneys recognized by Super Lawyers and the National Trial Lawyers Top 100
- Membership in the California DUI Lawyers Association
- Defense strategies tailored to the facts of your case
We can review the circumstances surrounding every DUI arrest, including the traffic stop, field sobriety testing, chemical testing, and any issues related to your vehicle’s towing, impoundment, or release. Contact the firm today to schedule a confidential consultation with a San Jose criminal defense attorney.
Will My Car Be Towed After a DUI Arrest?
In many DUI cases, yes. If there is no licensed driver available to take your vehicle from the scene, law enforcement may arrange for it to be towed and impounded. However, whether your vehicle is towed depends on the circumstances of the arrest and the decisions made by the responding officers.
In some situations, officers may allow a sober, licensed driver to take possession of the vehicle instead of having it towed. This is not guaranteed and depends on the specific facts of the situation.
Where Will My Vehicle Be Taken?
If your vehicle is towed, it is typically taken to an authorized impound lot or towing facility. The location depends on the agency handling the arrest and the towing company assigned to remove the vehicle.
You should receive information about where your vehicle was taken and what steps are required to retrieve it. In many San Jose cases, the San José Police Department’s Vehicle Records Unit can provide information about your vehicle’s location and whether a vehicle release is required before it can be picked up.
If you are unsure where your car is located, you can also contact the towing company listed on your impound paperwork.
How Do I Get My Car Back After a DUI Arrest?
The process for recovering your vehicle depends on why it was impounded and the policies of the towing facility. In many cases, you will need to provide proof of ownership, a valid driver’s license or other acceptable identification, and proof of insurance before the vehicle can be released.
You may also be responsible for paying towing and storage fees before taking possession of your vehicle. If someone else is retrieving the vehicle on your behalf, additional documentation may be required.
There may be situations where the impound refuses to release the vehicle. A San Jose DUI attorney can help you investigate and determine your legal rights to retrieve your vehicle after a DUI arrest.
How Much Does It Cost to Retrieve an Impounded Vehicle?
The cost of recovering an impounded vehicle varies depending on several factors, including the towing company, the length of time the vehicle remains in storage, and any applicable administrative fees.
Because storage charges often increase each day the vehicle remains at the impound lot, retrieving your vehicle as soon as possible may help limit the total cost.
Can Someone Else Pick up My Car?
In some cases, yes. A family member, friend, or another authorized person may be able to retrieve your vehicle if they meet the towing company’s release requirements.
The towing facility may require proof of authorization, proof of ownership, valid identification, or other documentation before releasing the vehicle. It is a good idea to contact the impound lot in advance to confirm what will be needed.
What If My Car Was Held as Evidence?
Although many vehicles are released after being towed, there are situations in which law enforcement may hold a vehicle as evidence during an ongoing criminal investigation. This is more likely if officers believe the vehicle itself is relevant to the alleged offense or another crime.
If your vehicle is being held as evidence, the release process may be delayed until law enforcement determines it is no longer needed for the investigation. Your San Jose criminal defense lawyer can help you determine why the vehicle is being held and whether any steps can be taken to seek its release.
Schedule a Confidential Case Evaluation With Our DUI Defense Lawyers Today
A DUI arrest in San Jose, CA, can affect more than just your criminal case. You may also have questions about your vehicle, your driver’s license, and the steps you need to take in the days following your arrest. Addressing these issues early can help you avoid unnecessary delays and additional complications.
Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys, can explain the DUI process, answer your questions, and evaluate the circumstances surrounding your arrest. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation with a San Jose DUI attorney.