Crowley County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Crowley County

Following a DUI arrest in Crowley County, Colorado, one of the first pressing issues is retrieving your vehicle. Colorado law allows for the impoundment of vehicles when the driver is arrested for DUI, C.R.S. 42-4-1301, and understanding the process for getting your car back is crucial to minimize costs and avoid further complications. This guide provides immediate, practical steps to navigate the vehicle retrieval process in Crowley County.

Where Is Your Car?

In Crowley County, your vehicle is likely stored at one of a few locations depending on where you were arrested. Unlike larger cities, Crowley County utilizes local businesses for towing and impound services. The primary impound lot is:

• Chubbuck Motor Co.
• Address: 330 Main Street, Ordway, CO 81063
• Phone: (719) 267-3571

Because Crowley County sits between larger jurisdictions, the arresting location determines the tow company. The Crowley County Sheriff's Office uses a "rotation list," so your car may be at a different lot. You MUST call the Crowley County Sheriff's Office Dispatch at (719) 267-5555 Ext 2 to confirm who towed the vehicle.

How to Find Your Vehicle

If you're unsure where your vehicle was towed, take these steps:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating the tow company and impound location.
• Call the Crowley County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: Contact dispatch at (719) 267-5555 Ext 2. Provide your name and date of arrest to inquire about the impound location.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number ready when you call will help the Sheriff's Office locate your information more quickly.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, ensure you have all the necessary documents and information to avoid delays.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you'll need someone with a valid license to retrieve the vehicle.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is required to claim the vehicle.
• Proof of insurance: Current insurance documentation for the vehicle.
• Sheriff's Release Form: Before you go to the tow yard, you must obtain a "Hold Release" or "Tow Release" form issued by the Crowley County Sheriff's Office. Your first stop after release from jail must be the Sheriff's administration window (110 East 6th St) to get this paperwork.
• Payment for fees: The impound lot will require payment for towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended, you can still retrieve your vehicle by having a licensed individual assist you:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: They will need their valid driver's license.
• Authorization letter: A signed authorization letter from you, granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.
• Vehicle title or registration: To prove ownership.

Costs & Fees in Crowley County

The costs associated with retrieving your vehicle can add up quickly, so understanding the fee structure is essential.

• Daily Storage Rate: Expect to pay approximately $30 - $50 per day for storage at Chubbuck Motor Co.
• Tow Fee: Towing fees typically range from $150 - $250 base plus mileage.
• Admin/Processing Fee: A Sheriff's Admin Fee of around $50 may apply separately.

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

Payment

Call Chubbuck Motor Co. at (719) 267-3571 in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Cash (exact change) is often preferred, and while credit cards may be accepted, they may incur a surcharge or require the owner's physical presence.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day your vehicle remains at the impound lot costs more money. Chubbuck Motor Co. is a small, family-run business and often closes strictly at 5:00 PM and may close for lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM). If you are released from jail at 4:30 PM on a Friday, you have a critical 30-minute window to get your car. If you miss it, you will likely pay storage fees for Saturday and Sunday, retrieving it Monday. Call immediately upon release.

After 30 Days

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

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're struggling to afford the impound fees, consider the following options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance in covering the costs.
• Ask about a payment plan: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, allowing you to pay the fees in installments.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate or challenge the fees.

After Retrieval

Once you've paid the fees and presented the necessary documentation, you can retrieve your vehicle. Before driving away:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage: Take photos of any damage as evidence.
• Report any damage: Immediately report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away.

Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: Can I request a hearing if I believe the tow was illegal?*A: Yes, you have the right to request a hearing if you believe the tow was unlawful. In Crowley County, file this request with the Crowley County Combined Court at 110 East 6th St, Ordway, CO 81063. A nominal filing fee may apply.

**Q: What happens if I call the Crowley County Correctional Facility looking for my car?*A: The Crowley County Correctional Facility (CCCF) is a private prison that houses state DOC inmates, NOT freshly arrested DUI offenders. You need to contact the Crowley County Sheriff's Office Dispatch at (719) 267-5555 Ext 2 or visit the Sheriff's administration window at 110 East 6th St to confirm where your car was towed.

**Q: The Ordway DMV office is closest to me. Can I get my driver's license reinstated there after a DUI?*A: No. The Crowley County Motor Vehicle office in Ordway (631 Main Street, Ste 102) handles vehicle registrations and titles, but NOT driver's license hearings or reinstatements. You must contact the State Driver License Office in La Junta (13 W. 3rd St, La Junta) or Pueblo, or use the online portal at Colorado DMV.