Clear Creek County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Clear Creek County

Being arrested for DUI in Clear Creek County can be a stressful and confusing experience. One immediate concern is often: what happens to my vehicle? In most DUI arrests, the arresting officer will have your vehicle towed and impounded. This is to prevent you from driving under the influence and to ensure the vehicle's safekeeping. Understanding the process for retrieving your car is crucial to minimize costs and avoid further complications. This guide provides the essential steps to get your vehicle back as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Where Is Your Car?

After a DUI arrest in Clear Creek County, your vehicle is likely towed to one of the contracted impound lots. It's important to determine exactly where your car was taken to begin the retrieval process. Common impound locations include:

• Ryan's Recovery: 198 Continental Ct, Breckenridge, CO 80424
• Dad's Towing and Recovery - Idaho Springs: 268 Stanley Rd Unit B, Idaho Springs, CO 80452

How to Find Your Vehicle

Locating your vehicle quickly is essential to minimize storage fees. Here are a few ways to determine where your car is impounded:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating the towing company and impound lot.
• Call the Clear Creek County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: You can reach them at (303) 980-7300 to inquire about your vehicle's location. Reference your booking number for faster assistance.
• Reference your booking number: This will help the Sheriff's Office quickly locate your information and provide details on where your vehicle was towed.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your vehicle is impounded, gather the necessary documents for retrieval.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle needs a valid driver's license. If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, see the section below.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is required.
• Proof of insurance: Current insurance documentation for the vehicle.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended, you cannot retrieve the vehicle yourself. You have two primary options:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A licensed individual can pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle, and the vehicle's title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Clear Creek County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the costs involved is critical. Be aware that mountain towing rates typically apply.

Based on available data, expect the following:

• Towing Base Fee: Approximately $280, plus mileage and labor.
• Impound Storage: Around $47 - $58 per day. This accrues daily, including weekends.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize expenses.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Most accept cash, and some may accept credit cards or money orders. Contact the specific impound lot to confirm their accepted methods:

• Ryan's Recovery: Contact for payment options.
• Dad's Towing and Recovery - Idaho Springs: Contact for payment options.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the total cost. Contact the impound lot as soon as possible to arrange for retrieval.

After 30 Days

Colorado law allows impound lots to initiate a lien sale if a vehicle is unclaimed for an extended period, typically after 30 days. Do not let it reach this point. You will lose ownership of your vehicle.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider these options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for financial assistance to cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans to help you manage the expenses.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, a DUI attorney may be able to negotiate or challenge excessive fees.

After Retrieval

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Thoroughly check for any damage that may have occurred while the vehicle was in impound.
• Document any damage with photos: Take detailed photos of any scratches, dents, or other damage.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: This is crucial for filing a claim if damage occurred while the vehicle was in their care.

By following these steps, you can navigate the process of retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Clear Creek County efficiently and avoid unnecessary expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

**1. How quickly must I act to request a DMV hearing in Clear Creek County after a DUI arrest?*You have a very limited window. Under Colorado law, you have only 7 calendar days from the date of your arrest to request a hearing with the Colorado DMV to challenge the suspension of your driver's license. Failing to request a hearing within this timeframe will result in an automatic license revocation. This is separate from the criminal proceedings.

**2. Where is the Clear Creek County Detention Center located, and how do I access it after hours for bond posting?*The Clear Creek County Detention Center is located at 405 Argentine Street, Georgetown, CO 80444. The administrative lobby is open Monday through Thursday, 7:30 am – 4:00 pm. For bond posting or surrenders occurring on Fridays, weekends, or evenings, you must enter the vestibule and use the phone on the wall to contact the jail control room for access.

**3. Given Clear Creek County's geography and limited local services, what's the best approach for completing Level II DUI education requirements?*Due to the lack of extensive local treatment options, consider requesting permission from the probation office or court to complete Level II education online via telehealth services. This can help overcome transportation challenges created by license revocation. Telebehavioral health a "game-changer” for Colorado jails during the COVID-19 pandemic