Chaffee County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Chaffee County

After a DUI arrest in Chaffee County, one of the most immediate concerns is retrieving your vehicle. Colorado law enforcement agencies routinely impound vehicles following a DUI arrest to ensure public safety and prevent further offenses. Understanding the process and acting quickly is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid complications. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to help you navigate the impound and retrieval process in Chaffee County.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you are arrested for DUI in Colorado, the arresting officer will arrange for your vehicle to be towed and stored at a designated impound lot. This is standard procedure under CO law § 42-4-1301. The vehicle will remain impounded until you, or someone authorized by you, takes the necessary steps to reclaim it. Be aware that storage fees accrue daily, so prompt action is essential. The "geographic penalty" of Chaffee County can add to the challenge; the Chaffee County Sheriff's Office is located in Salida, but your car may be impounded in Buena Vista, or vice versa.

Where Is Your Car?

Locating your vehicle is the first step. In Chaffee County, the impound landscape is decentralized, with different towing companies serving different areas. There is no single municipal impound lot.

• Arrests in Salida / Southern Chaffee County: Your vehicle is likely at A-1 Auto Service, located at 445 West Rainbow Blvd, Salida, CO 81201.

• Arrests in Buena Vista / Northern Chaffee County: Your vehicle is likely at Gunsmoke Towing & Recovery, located at 12916 US Hwy 24, Buena Vista, CO 81211.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating the name and location of the towing company.
• Call the Chaffee County Sheriff's Office: If you are unsure where your vehicle was towed, contact the non-emergency line at the Chaffee County Sheriff's Office at 719-539-2596.
• Reference Your Booking Number: Have your booking number ready when contacting the Sheriff's Office or the towing companies, as this will help them locate your vehicle more efficiently.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Retrieving your vehicle requires specific documentation and adherence to the impound lot's procedures. Tow yards in Chaffee County operate under strict liability laws.

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License: A valid driver's license (or a temporary permit, if your license was seized) is required to claim the vehicle.
• Vehicle Registration or Title: You must provide proof of ownership, either through the vehicle registration or title.
• Proof of Insurance: Current and valid insurance documentation is mandatory. If your insurance has expired, you will not be allowed to drive the vehicle off the lot.
• Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay all accrued towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license was suspended due to the DUI arrest, you can still retrieve your vehicle by having a licensed friend or family member do so.

• Have a Licensed Friend or Family Member Retrieve It: The licensed individual must present their valid driver's license, a notarized letter of authorization from you, and the vehicle's title or registration. The letter must state your full name, authorize the specific third party (full name) to retrieve the vehicle, identify the vehicle by make, model, license plate, and VIN, and be signed and notarized.
• The "Third-Party" Problem: If you are still in jail, a spouse or friend cannot simply pick up the car without this notarized letter.

Costs & Fees in Chaffee County

Understanding the costs associated with impoundment is critical, as fees accumulate quickly.

• A-1 Auto Service: Base Tow: Estimated at $180 - $260 depending on vehicle size and location. Daily Storage: Approximately $40 - $60 per day.
• Gunsmoke Towing & Recovery: Fees vary. Call for details.

**Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible.*### Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Cash is the safest option, but most lots also accept credit cards (Visa/Mastercard). A-1 Auto Service generally accepts credit cards, but may require the cardholder to be present with matching ID.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day costs more money. The "Lunch Hour Blackout" is a real concern; rural businesses, including tow yards, often close strictly for lunch (e.g., 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM). Always call ahead to confirm the staff is present.

After 30 Days

In Colorado, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot may initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are facing financial hardship and cannot afford the impound fees, consider the following:

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Reach out to family or friends for assistance in covering the costs.
• Ask About a Payment Plan: Inquire with the impound lot about the possibility of a payment plan. Some lots may offer this option, but it is not guaranteed.
• Consult with Your Attorney: Discuss the situation with your attorney. In some cases, they may be able to negotiate or challenge the fees on your behalf.

After Retrieval

• Inspect the Vehicle: Before leaving the impound lot, carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while in their custody.
• Document Any Damage: Take photos of any damage you find.
• Report Any Damage: Immediately report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happens if the police put a "hold" on my vehicle? A: A "police hold" means the tow yard cannot release the vehicle until the arresting agency releases the hold. Contact the Records Division of the agency that made the arrest (Salida Police Department: 719-530-2600; Chaffee County Sheriff’s Office: 719-539-2596; Colorado State Patrol: *CSP) to verify the status and obtain a release slip.

Q: Can someone else pick up my car for me if I'm still in jail? A: Yes, but only if you provide a notarized letter of authorization stating the owner's full name, authorizing the specific third party (full name) to retrieve the vehicle, identifying the vehicle by Make, Model, License Plate, and VIN, and is signed and notarized.

Q: What if I was arrested in Buena Vista but the tow company is in Salida? A: The "geographic penalty" is a real issue in Chaffee County. If you were arrested in Buena Vista and need to get to Salida to retrieve your car, explore ride-sharing options or ask a friend for assistance, as public transportation is limited.