Huerfano County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Huerfano County

Being arrested for DUI in Huerfano County can be a disorienting experience, and one of the immediate concerns is often: what happens to my car? In most DUI arrests, the vehicle is impounded. This is standard procedure to ensure public safety and prevent further potential offenses. Understanding the process for retrieving your vehicle is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications. This guide provides the essential steps and information you need to get your car back after a DUI arrest in Huerfano County.

Where Is Your Car?

After a DUI arrest in Huerfano County, your vehicle is typically towed to a designated impound lot. One known impound provider is:

• J.M. Tire Inc.: 928 South Main Street, Walsenburg, CO 81089. Phone: N/A.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Locating your vehicle quickly is essential to minimize storage fees. Here are a few ways to find out where your car was towed:

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer usually notes the name and contact information of the towing company on your release documents.
• Call the Huerfano County Sheriff's Office: Contact the Huerfano County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line to inquire about your vehicle's location.
• Reference Your Booking Number: Having your booking number ready when you call can help them locate the information faster. The Huerfano County Detention Center is located at 500 South Albert Street, Walsenburg, CO 81089, and their phone number is (719) 738-1740.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, make sure you have all the necessary documentation. Failing to do so will result in denial of release, and further storage fees.

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid, unexpired driver's license.
• Vehicle Registration or Title: Proof of ownership is required. Bring either the vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of Insurance: You must demonstrate 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 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 licensed driver 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 Huerfano County

Retrieving your vehicle involves paying towing and storage fees, which can add up quickly.

As of 2026, J.M. Tire Inc. charges a daily storage fee of $N/A.

IMPORTANT: These storage fees accrue daily, so the faster you retrieve your vehicle, the less you will pay.

Payment

Contact J.M. Tire Inc. in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Most impound lots accept cash, and some may accept credit cards or money orders. It is crucial to confirm payment options before arriving to avoid delays.

Timeline

Act Immediately

The clock starts ticking the moment your vehicle is towed. Storage fees accumulate immediately, so prompt action is crucial to minimize expenses.

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 everything you can to retrieve your vehicle before it reaches this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

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

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Seek assistance from loved ones who may be able to help cover the costs.
• 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. Inquire about this possibility.
• Consult with a DUI Attorney: A DUI attorney may be able to negotiate with the impound lot on your behalf or challenge the fees in certain circumstances.

After Retrieval

Before driving away with your vehicle, take the following precautions:

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately: Carefully inspect the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in the impound lot's possession.
• Document Any Damage with Photos: Take photographs of any damage you find as evidence.
• Report Any Damage to the Lot Manager in Writing: Notify the lot manager of any damage in writing before you leave the premises. This creates a record of your claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does the Huerfano County Detention Center hold someone after a DUI arrest? A: The jail will not release an individual until their BAC has dropped to a safe level (usually 0.00 or <0.02). This effectively mandates a 4-12 hour detention period regardless of bond readiness.

Q: What is the typical bond amount for a first-time DUI offense in Huerfano County? A: According to the Third Judicial District’s bond schedule, a first-time DUI offense typically carries a bond amount between $1,000 and $3,000.

Q: Where will I be processed after a DUI arrest in Huerfano County? A: All DUI arrestees in Huerfano County are processed at the Huerfano County Detention Center, located at 500 South Albert Street, Walsenburg, CO 81089.