Mesa County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Mesa County

Being arrested for DUI in Mesa County can be a stressful and confusing experience. One of the first things you'll need to address is getting your vehicle back, which is typically impounded following a DUI arrest. Understanding the process and acting quickly is crucial to minimize costs and avoid further complications. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to retrieve your vehicle from impound in Mesa County.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you are arrested for DUI in Mesa County, your vehicle is usually impounded for several reasons. This ensures public safety by preventing you from driving while impaired. It also serves as evidence in your case and allows law enforcement to conduct any necessary investigations. The Mesa County Sheriff's Office (MCSO), the Grand Junction Police Department (GJPD), or the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) Troop 4B may have been the arresting agency. The vehicle will be towed to a designated impound lot, and you will be responsible for all associated costs.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding out where your car has been towed is the first step. In Mesa County, vehicles are often taken to one of several impound lots. Here are a few possibilities:

• D & J Towing and Recovery LLC: 2896 US-50, Grand Junction, CO 81503
• Specialized Recovery Services: 316 US-6 &50 Unit 3, Fruita, CO 81521

How to Find Your Vehicle

If you are unsure where your vehicle was towed, here are a few ways to find out:

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with paperwork that includes the name and contact information of the towing company.
• Call the Mesa County Sheriff's Office: You can contact the non-emergency line to inquire about the location of your vehicle.
• Reference Your Booking Number: Have your booking number ready when you call, as this will help them locate your vehicle information more efficiently. You can use the Mesa County Sheriff's Office Inmate Locator to find information related to your arrest.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your car is impounded, you'll need to gather the necessary documents to retrieve it.

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle Registration or Title: You must provide proof of ownership of the vehicle.
• Proof of Insurance: You'll need to show 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 can still have someone else retrieve the vehicle for you. They will need:

• Their Valid Driver's License: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid license.
• A Signed Authorization Letter from You: A notarized letter granting them permission to pick up the vehicle on your behalf may be required. Check with the specific impound lot.
• Vehicle Title or Registration: Proof of your ownership of the vehicle.

Costs & Fees in Mesa County

Retrieving your vehicle from the impound lot involves paying towing and storage fees. These fees can add up quickly, so it's important to act fast.

Currently, Mesa County impound lots charge daily storage fees, though the exact amount is unavailable at this time.

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

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm which payment methods they accept. Most accept cash, and some may accept credit cards or money orders. Be sure to ask about any additional fees or charges that may apply.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes costs you more money. According to the Mesa County Sheriff's Office, you are responsible for these fees.

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. Contact the impound lot immediately to make arrangements for retrieving your vehicle.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are 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 About a Payment Plan: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. Inquire about this option when you contact the lot.
• Consult with Your Attorney: A DUI attorney may be able to negotiate the fees on your behalf or challenge the impound if there were any procedural errors. Due to the Mesa County District Attorney's aggressive stance against plea bargaining and diversion for DUI charges, securing competent legal representation is highly advised.

After Retrieval

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

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately: Carefully examine the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document Any Damage with Photos: Take clear photos of any scratches, dents, or other damage.
• Report Any Damage to the Lot Manager in Writing Before You Drive Away: Notify the impound lot manager of any damage you find and obtain a written acknowledgment of your report. This will be important if you need to file a claim for damages later.

Navigating the aftermath of a DUI arrest can be overwhelming, but understanding the process of retrieving your vehicle can help alleviate some of the stress. By acting quickly, gathering the necessary documents, and being prepared to pay the fees, you can get your car back and begin focusing on resolving your DUI case.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long do I have to request an Express Consent hearing with the Colorado DMV after a DUI arrest in Mesa County? You have only 7 days from the date of your arrest to request this hearing. Missing this deadline results in automatic license revocation.
2. What is the prosecutorial environment like for DUI cases in Mesa County? The 21st Judicial District Attorney's Office takes an unyielding approach to DUI offenses. Diversion programs and Deferred Judgment and Sentence (DJ&S) alternatives are strictly prohibited for DUI and DWAI offenders in Mesa County.
3. Where can I find treatment resources in Mesa County? Summit View Treatment Services, operated directly by Mesa County Criminal Justice Services, provides evidence-based residential and outpatient services. Triage and intake can be reached at 970-244-3889.