Fremont County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Fremont County

After a DUI arrest in Fremont County, Colorado, one of your immediate concerns is likely getting your vehicle back. Your car is typically impounded following a DUI arrest for evidentiary reasons or to prevent further offenses. Understanding the process, required documents, fees, and timelines is crucial to a swift and cost-effective vehicle retrieval. This guide provides the information you need to navigate the process in Fremont County.

Where Is Your Car?

Your vehicle was likely towed to one of the following impound lots in Fremont County:

• Fremont County Sheriff: 100 Justice Center Rd, Cañon City, CO 81212. Phone: N/A. Daily Fee: $N/A.
• Fremont Towing: 520 S 10th St, Cañon City, CO 81212. Phone: N/A. Daily Fee: $N/A.

How to Find Your Vehicle

If you're unsure where your vehicle was towed, here are some steps you can take:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating the tow company and impound location.
• Call the Fremont County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: They can assist in locating your vehicle if you provide your name and date of arrest.
• Reference your booking number: This number, assigned during the booking process at the Fremont County Jail (100 Justice Center Road, Cañon City, CO 81212), can help identify your vehicle's location. You can contact the Fremont County Jail at (719) 276-5555 (Option 2) for assistance.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

To retrieve your vehicle from the impound lot, you will generally need the following:

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or a licensed person picking it up for you)
• Vehicle registration or title
• Proof of insurance
• Payment for all applicable fees

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot personally retrieve the vehicle. In this case:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A person with a valid driver's license 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 title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Fremont County

The costs associated with retrieving your vehicle can quickly add up. Be prepared for the following:

• Towing fees
• Daily storage fees: Check with the specific impound lot for current fees. The Fremont County Sheriff charges $N/A daily, while Fremont Towing charges $N/A daily.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue every day. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes to retrieve your vehicle. Act quickly to minimize these costs.

Payment

Contact the specific impound lot before going to retrieve your vehicle to confirm their accepted payment methods. Some may accept cash, credit cards, money orders, or a combination thereof.

Timeline

Act Immediately

As mentioned, daily storage fees begin accumulating the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day of delay translates to more money owed. Prioritize retrieving your vehicle as soon as possible.

After 30 Days

In Colorado, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot has the right to initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. Do everything you can to prevent your vehicle from reaching this stage.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're facing financial hardship and struggling to pay the impound fees, consider these options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask if they can help cover the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans or installment options. It's worth inquiring.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: A DUI attorney familiar with the Fremont County legal system may be able to negotiate or challenge the fees in certain circumstances. Retaining local counsel familiar with the specific predilections of the 11th Judicial District judges is a strategic imperative.

After Retrieval

Once you retrieve your vehicle:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any new damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photos of any damage as evidence.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Obtain a written acknowledgment of your damage report from the lot manager. This documentation is crucial if you need to file a claim for damages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to request an Express Consent Hearing with the Colorado DMV after a DUI arrest in Fremont County? A: You have only 7 calendar days from the date the arresting officer issues the Express Consent Affidavit and Notice of Revocation. Because the Fremont County DMV is closed on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, if you are arrested on a Thursday night, you have zero margin for error if you intend to file your request in person at the local office. It's best to bypass the local office and submit the request electronically via email to dor_hearingrequest@state.co.us or through the state portal at mydmv.colorado.gov.

Q: Where will my DUI case be heard in Fremont County? A: Your case will be heard at the Fremont Combined Court (11th Judicial District), located at 136 Justice Center Road, Cañon City, CO 81212.

Q: What happens if I'm arrested for DUI late on a Friday night in Fremont County? A: If you are arrested for a Felony DUI, which requires a hearing before a judge and precludes the sheriff from granting an automatic PR release, you may be held through the weekend until a specialized bond hearing can be convened. For misdemeanor DUIs, utilize the GovPayNow system or a digital bondsman immediately to circumvent the need for physical court presence, ensuring the 6-hour statutory release clock begins ticking as soon as the booking process concludes.