Navajo County Vehicle Impound Guide

Tri-R Towing, located at 1521 E. 2nd St, Winslow, AZ 86047, is a primary towing provider for the I-40 corridor in Navajo County. Their dispatch number is (928) 289-4239.

Vehicle Impoundment After a DUI in Navajo County: A Local Guide

If you've been arrested for DUI in Navajo County, Arizona, understanding the vehicle impound process is crucial. Unlike some areas with centralized impound lots, Navajo County relies on a rotation list of private towing companies. This means the location where your vehicle is towed can vary significantly depending on which company is on rotation when you are arrested. One defendant might have their car towed just five miles, while another might face a 40-mile trek to a neighboring town.

Mandatory Impoundment: The 20-Day Rule

Arizona law, specifically A.R.S. § 28-3511 (often called the "20-Day Tow Law"), mandates vehicle impoundment in several DUI-related scenarios:

• Revoked or Suspended License: If you're driving with a suspended, revoked, or cancelled license.
• No License: If you've never been issued a valid driver's license.
• Extreme or Aggravated DUI: If you're arrested for Extreme DUI (BAC of 0.15 or higher) or Aggravated DUI (DUI while suspended or with a minor in the vehicle).
• Underage Drinking and Driving: If you're under 21 and have any detectable amount of alcohol in your system.
• Interlock Violation: Operating a vehicle without a required certified ignition interlock device (CIID).
• Reckless Driving/Racing: Cited for reckless driving or exhibition of speed.

If any of these apply, your vehicle will be held for a minimum of 20 days.

Towing Companies Used in Navajo County

Several towing companies operate within the Navajo County rotation system:

• Tri-R Towing (Winslow/Holbrook/I-40 Corridor): Dominant provider for the I-40 corridor. Phone: (928) 289-4239. Location: 1521 E. 2nd St, Winslow, AZ 86047.
• Blacktop Towing (Show Low/Mountain Region): Serves the southern population centers. Phone: (602) 818-1147.
• Navapache Towing (Show Low): Location: 2050 E. Adams, Show Low, AZ.
• Murphy’s Heavy Towing (Holbrook): Specializes in heavy recovery along I-40. Location: 1002 Davis Road, Holbrook, AZ 86025.

The Cost of Getting Your Car Back

Expect to spend around $725 to retrieve a vehicle. The financial logistics of vehicle recovery involve two primary fees:

1. Administrative Recovery Fee: A standardized $150.00 fee payable to the impounding agency (Navajo County Sheriff's Office, Winslow PD, or Show Low PD). Be aware that many of these agencies require payment via Cash, Money Order, or Cashier's Check. Credit cards may not be accepted or may incur surcharge fees.
2. Contractor Towing and Storage Fees: Paid directly to the towing company.

• Daily Storage Rate: Capped at $15.00 per day for the mandatory 20-day hold period, however, rates may revert to the standard market rate ($30-$50/day) if the vehicle is left longer.
• Flat Rate Tow Fee: Typically ranges from $100 to $250.
• Gate Fees: An "After-Hours Gate Fee" (often $50-$75) is often charged for releases outside of the tow company's standard business hours (usually M-F, 8 AM - 5 PM).

The Vehicle Release Process

1. Agency Visit (The "Paperwork Phase"): Go to the impounding agency (e.g., Navajo County Sheriff's Office at 100 East Code Talkers Drive, Holbrook). You'll need:

• Valid Driver’s License (or a licensed driver with you if yours is suspended).
• Current Registration.
• Proof of Mandatory Insurance.

1. The 20-Day Hold & Early Release: Under A.R.S. § 28-3512, the vehicle must be held for 20 days unless exceptions apply (Spousal Release, Lienholder Release, Rental Vehicles).
2. The Tow Yard Visit: Take the release paperwork to the tow yard. Many rural tow yards close strictly for lunch (e.g., 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM).

The Navajo County Sheriff's Office is located at 100 East Code Talkers Drive, Holbrook.