Las Animas County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Las Animas County

Being arrested for DUI in Las Animas County can be a stressful and confusing experience. One of the first things you'll need to address is retrieving your vehicle, which is typically impounded following a DUI arrest. Understanding the process, required documents, associated costs, and timelines is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications. This guide provides a practical overview of how to get your car back after a DUI arrest in Las Animas County, Colorado.

Where Is Your Car?

After a DUI arrest in Las Animas County, your vehicle is typically towed to one of the impound lots contracted by the Las Animas County Sheriff's Office or the Trinidad Police Department. Here are a couple of possible locations:

• Joey's Diesel & Towing: 104 Liberty Dr, Trinidad, CO 81082. Phone: N/A.
• M & M Repair and Towing: 1901 N Linden Ave, Trinidad, CO 81082. 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 should have provided you with documentation that includes the name and contact information of the towing company.
• Call the Las Animas County Sheriff's Office: Contact the non-emergency dispatch line at Las Animas County Sheriff's Office to inquire about the location of your vehicle.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number readily available when contacting the Sheriff's Office can expedite the process. The LASO Jail Roster Index, accessed on March 26, 2026, LASO Jail Roster Index can also be used.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, make sure you have all the necessary documentation to avoid delays and additional fees.

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 provide proof of current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• 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 legally drive the vehicle yourself. In this case, you have two options:

• 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 in your name.

Costs & Fees in Las Animas County

Understanding the costs associated with retrieving your vehicle is critical. Be prepared for the following expenses:

• Towing Fee: According to state law enforcement mandate the tow fee is $286.15 per hour/truck base fee.
• Daily Storage Rate: Contact the specific impound lot to determine the current daily storage rate.

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

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Most facilities accept cash and major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), as mandated by the Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC). Be prepared to pay the full amount due before the vehicle will be released.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day of delay will add to the total cost.

After 30 Days

In Colorado, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot may initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are facing financial hardship and struggling to afford the towing and storage fees, consider the following options:

• Contact a family member or friend: Ask for assistance in covering the costs.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: While not legally required, some impound lots may offer payment plans on a case-by-case basis.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: In some cases, a DUI attorney can negotiate with the towing company or challenge the fees.

After Retrieval

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any signs of damage that may have occurred while in the impound lot's possession.
• Document any damage with photos: Take detailed photographs of any damage you find.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Notify the lot manager of the damage in writing and obtain a copy of the report for your records. This will be crucial if you need to file a claim for damages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where will my car be impounded if I'm arrested for DUI in Las Animas County? A: Your car will likely be towed to Joey's Diesel & Towing or M & M Repair and Towing in Trinidad. Contact the Las Animas County Sheriff's Office for confirmation.

Q: How much does it cost per day to store a vehicle at the impound lot in Las Animas County? A: Contact the specific impound lot to determine the current daily storage rate. The towing fee is $286.15 per hour/truck base fee.

Q: What happens if I can't afford to get my car out of impound in Las Animas County? A: Storage fees will continue to accrue. After approximately 30 days, the impound lot may initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. Contact a family member, friend, or DUI attorney for assistance.