Gunnison County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Gunnison County

Being arrested for DUI in Gunnison County can be a disorienting experience. Besides the legal ramifications, one of the first practical concerns is often: "Where's my car, and how do I get it back?" This guide provides immediate, actionable steps to locate and retrieve your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Gunnison County, Colorado. Understanding the process and acting quickly can save you significant money in storage fees.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you are arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) in Gunnison County, law enforcement will typically have your vehicle towed and impounded. This is done for several reasons: to ensure public safety by preventing further operation of the vehicle, to preserve evidence, and to comply with standard procedure. The vehicle will be held at a contracted impound lot until you (or someone authorized by you) can retrieve it. It's critical to remember that retrieving your vehicle is a separate process from your DUI case itself. Even if your charges are eventually dropped, you are still responsible for paying all applicable towing and storage fees.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is determining where your vehicle was towed. The arresting officer should inform you of the towing company's name and location, but this information isn't always readily available at the scene. Don't panic. There are several ways to locate your vehicle:

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The paperwork provided by the arresting officer should include the name and contact information for the towing company that has your vehicle. This is the most direct way to find out where your car is located.
• Call the Gunnison County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you can't find the information on your paperwork, contact the Gunnison County Sheriff's Office at their non-emergency phone number. They should be able to provide you with the location of your vehicle based on your name and date of arrest.
• Reference your booking number: When you were processed at the Gunnison County Detention Center, you were assigned a booking number. This number can help law enforcement quickly locate your vehicle information in their system.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your car is impounded, you need to gather the necessary documents to retrieve it. The impound lot will require specific paperwork to verify your ownership and authorization.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You will need to present a valid driver's license to prove your identity and ability to legally operate the vehicle.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must provide proof of ownership by presenting the vehicle registration or title. This document confirms that you are the legal owner of the vehicle.
• Proof of insurance: You'll need to show proof of current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all applicable towing and storage fees. The impound lot will not release your vehicle until these fees are paid in full.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your driver's license is suspended or revoked due to the DUI arrest, you cannot personally retrieve the vehicle. However, you can authorize someone else to pick it up for you.

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A licensed driver can retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license
• A signed authorization letter from you, clearly stating that you authorize them to pick up your vehicle.
• The vehicle title or registration to prove ownership.

Costs & Fees in Gunnison County

Towing and storage fees can quickly add up, creating a significant financial burden. It is essential to understand the potential costs involved. While specific rates vary, here's a general idea of what to expect: According to research data, statutory storage fees can be $48.19/day.

Typical towing fees in Colorado generally range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees typically range from $25 to $50 per day. However, it is crucial to call the specific impound lot holding your vehicle to confirm their exact rates before you go.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day, including weekends and holidays. The longer you wait to retrieve your vehicle, the more expensive it will become.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to inquire about their accepted payment methods. Most lots accept cash and credit cards, but some may also accept money orders or certified checks. It is always best to confirm before you arrive to avoid any delays or complications.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when it comes to retrieving your impounded vehicle.

Act Immediately

Storage fees begin accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the total amount you owe.

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. This means they can legally sell your vehicle to recover the unpaid towing and storage fees. To avoid this, take action as soon as possible.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are facing financial hardship and cannot afford the towing and storage fees, consider the following options:

• Contact a family member or friend to help cover costs: Ask for assistance from loved ones who may be willing to lend you the money.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. It's worth inquiring about this option.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: A DUI attorney in Gunnison County can advise you on your legal options and may be able to negotiate with the impound lot on your behalf.

After Retrieval

Before driving your vehicle off the impound lot, take the following steps:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in the lot's possession.
• Document any damage with photos: Take detailed photographs of any dents, scratches, or other damage you find.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Notify the impound lot manager of any damage in writing before you leave the premises. This will help protect your rights if you need to file a claim for damages later.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to request an administrative hearing with the DMV after a DUI arrest in Gunnison County? A: You have only 7 calendar days from the date of your arrest (or from the date you receive notice of blood test results) to request an administrative hearing with the Colorado DMV to contest the suspension of your driver's license. Requesting the hearing in person at the Gunnison State Driver License Office at 302 N. Main Street allows you to get a 60-day temporary permit.

Q: Where is the Gunnison County Combined Court located? A: The Gunnison County Combined Courts is located at 200 E Virginia Ave, Gunnison, CO 81230. The Gunnison County Combined Courts handle DUI cases.

Q: What are the primary law enforcement agencies that make DUI arrests in Gunnison County? A: The Gunnison Police Department and the Gunnison County Sheriff's Office are the primary agencies responsible for DUI enforcement in Gunnison County. The Colorado State Patrol also patrols highways in the county.