Custer County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Custer County

Being arrested for DUI in Custer County can be a stressful and confusing experience. One of the immediate concerns many people face is what happens to their vehicle. In most DUI arrests, the arresting officer will have your vehicle towed and impounded. This guide provides a step-by-step explanation of how to retrieve your car, the costs involved, and important considerations to keep in mind.

Where Is Your Car?

After a DUI arrest in Custer County, your vehicle is typically towed to the designated impound lot. In Custer County, your vehicle is likely at:

• Baltzly Towing LLC: Westcliffe, CO

How to Find Your Vehicle

If you're unsure where your car was towed, here are a few ways to find out:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The officer should have noted the name of the towing company on the documents you received at the time of your arrest.
• Call the Custer County Sheriff's Office: You can call the Custer County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line to inquire about the location of your vehicle.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number ready when you call can help them locate the information more quickly.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before you head to the impound lot, make sure you have all the necessary documents and are prepared to pay the associated fees.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license unless specific arrangements are made (see below).
• Vehicle registration or title: You'll need to prove ownership of the vehicle.
• Proof of insurance: You must show that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license was suspended or revoked due to the DUI arrest, you cannot legally drive the vehicle yourself. In this case:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: The easiest solution is to have someone with a valid driver's license pick up the vehicle for you.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you (stating they have your permission to retrieve the vehicle), and the vehicle title or registration. The Custer County Sheriff's Office requires a "Tow Release" form issued by the Sheriff's Office, located at 702 Rosita Ave, Westcliffe, before Baltzly Towing LLC will release your car.
• The Sheriff will not release a vehicle to an unlicensed driver.

Costs & Fees in Custer County

Retrieving your vehicle from the impound lot involves several potential fees. It's crucial to understand these costs to avoid surprises.

• Daily Storage Fee: The maximum storage rate is $47.12 per 24-hour period.
• Mileage Cost: $4.05 per mile. A tow from Wetmore to Westcliffe (approx. 15 miles) would incur roughly $60.75 in mileage fees alone.
• Notification Fee: $75.00 to $150.00 for certified mail to the owner/lienholder.
• After-Hours Release: If you attempt to retrieve the vehicle on a Saturday or after 5:00 PM, an additional $103.70 fee applies.
• Fuel Surcharge: This is a dynamic fee adjusted monthly based on DOE diesel prices. For February 2026, the surcharge is $0.25 per mile.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day, starting the moment your vehicle arrives at the lot. Weekends can be particularly costly. If arrested on a Friday night, and you cannot secure release paperwork until Monday, three days of storage ($141.36) will accrue automatically.

Payment

Before heading to Baltzly Towing LLC, call to confirm which payment methods they accept. Many towing companies require cash or certified funds. This may require you to visit a bank in Westcliffe to withdraw cash.

Timeline

Act Immediately

The most important thing to remember is that time is money. Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day you delay retrieving your vehicle, the more it will cost.

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 towing and storage fees, consider these options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask if they can help cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot about a payment plan: Some towing companies may offer payment plans, but this is not guaranteed.
• Consult with your attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate the fees or challenge their validity.

After Retrieval

Before driving away from the impound lot, take these important steps:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photos of any dents, scratches, or other damage.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Obtain a written acknowledgment of your report. This will be crucial if you need to file a claim later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I get my personal belongings out of my car before I retrieve it? A: You can request access to your vehicle to retrieve essential personal belongings. Contact Baltzly Towing LLC to arrange a time.

Q: What if I can't retrieve my car because my license is suspended? A: You must have a licensed driver retrieve the vehicle on your behalf. The Custer County Sheriff's Office will require a "Tow Release" form and will not release a vehicle to an unlicensed driver.

Q: Can I challenge the impound if I believe it was unlawful? A: Consult with a DUI attorney to discuss the circumstances of your arrest and whether there are grounds to challenge the impound.