Kit Carson County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Kit Carson County

Being arrested for DUI in Kit Carson County, Colorado, is a stressful experience, and one of the immediate concerns is often: what happens to my car? Vehicles are typically impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons, including preventing further impaired driving and ensuring the vehicle is safely stored until the driver is legally able to operate it. Knowing how to navigate the impound and retrieval process can save you time, money, and further legal complications. This guide provides the steps you need to take to get your vehicle back as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Where Is Your Car?

Unlike counties with a centralized impound lot, Kit Carson County utilizes a decentralized "rotational wrecker program." This means your vehicle could be at any number of private towing facilities contracted by the Kit Carson County Sheriff's Office. Here are two possible locations:

• S&M Repair and Towing LLC: 98 Rose Ave, Burlington, CO 80807
• Fort Carson Impound lot: 3600 Magrath Ave, Fort Carson, CO 80913

How to Find Your Vehicle

Locating your vehicle quickly is crucial to minimize storage fees. Here are several ways to find out where your car is impounded:

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with paperwork indicating the name of the towing company and potentially their contact information.
• Call the Kit Carson County Sheriff's Office: Contact the non-emergency dispatch line at 719-346-9325. They can provide you with the name and contact information for the towing company that has your vehicle.
• Reference Your Booking Number: Have your booking number ready when you call, as this will help the Sheriff's Office locate the relevant information more quickly.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, gather all necessary documents to avoid delays or denial of release.

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License: You, or the person retrieving the vehicle, must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle Registration or Title: Proof of ownership is required to claim the vehicle.
• Proof of Insurance: You must demonstrate that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay all towing and storage fees (see below).

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or revoked 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's title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Kit Carson County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly, so understanding the costs involved is essential.

• Daily Storage Fee (S&M Repair and Towing LLC): $N/A
• Daily Storage Fee (Fort Carson Impound lot): $N/A

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

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Some facilities accept cash, credit cards, and money orders, while others may have more limited options.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day of delay translates to more money owed.

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. Take immediate steps to retrieve your vehicle.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

The cost of retrieving an impounded vehicle can be a significant burden, especially after a DUI arrest. If you are struggling to afford the fees:

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Ask for assistance in covering the towing and storage costs.
• Ask the Impound Lot About a Payment Plan: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. Inquire about this option.
• Consult with Your Attorney: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate the fees or challenge their validity.

After Retrieval

Once you have paid the fees and are ready to take possession of your vehicle:

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately Before Leaving the Lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any signs of damage that may have occurred while in impound.
• 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: Notify the impound lot manager of any damage in writing before leaving the premises. This creates a record of the damage and can be crucial if you need to file a claim for compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions

**1. How long do I have to request a DMV hearing after a DUI arrest in Kit Carson County?*You only have 7 days from the date of your arrest to request a hearing with the Colorado DMV to challenge the suspension of your driver's license. Missing this deadline can result in an automatic license suspension.

**2. Where can I complete court-ordered DUI education and therapy in Kit Carson County?*First Step Recovery, located at 595 14th Street in Burlington, is a local facility licensed by the state to provide both Level I DUI Education and Level II DUI Education & Therapy. You can reach them at 719-346-6060.

**3. Where will my advisement and bond hearing be held if arrested for DUI in Kit Carson County?*Advisement and bond hearings are held daily at 2:15 PM via WebEx at the Kit Carson County Detention Center. Missing this narrow window will likely result in an overnight stay in custody.