Ouray County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Ouray County

After a DUI arrest in Ouray County, one of your immediate concerns is likely, "What happens to my car?" In Colorado, law enforcement officers typically impound vehicles following a DUI arrest for several reasons: as part of the investigation, for public safety, or because the driver's license has been immediately revoked under Colorado's Express Consent law. This guide provides critical information on how to locate, retrieve, and handle the financial and logistical challenges of getting your vehicle back in Ouray County.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you are arrested for DUI in Ouray County, your vehicle is usually towed and stored at an impound lot. This is standard procedure to prevent further operation of the vehicle by an impaired driver. The arresting officer will arrange for a tow truck to transport your vehicle. Understanding the impound process and acting quickly is essential to minimize storage fees and other associated costs.

Where Is Your Car?

Your vehicle will most likely be taken to one of two locations, depending on the towing rotation used by the Ouray County Sheriff's Office (OCSO) or Colorado State Patrol (CSP). Knowing where to start your search is crucial. Here are the primary impound locations used in Ouray County:

• M&H Towing: 19185 Hwy 550 South, Montrose
• Timber Ridge Wrecker Service: 1600 Main St, Ouray, CO

How to Find Your Vehicle

If you're unsure where your car was towed, here are a few steps you can take:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating the name of the towing company used.
• Call the Ouray County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: They can help you locate your vehicle by referencing your name and date of arrest.
• Reference your booking number: This number, assigned during the booking process, can help the OCSO quickly locate your vehicle information.

Keep in mind that if your vehicle was towed by M&H Towing, it is considered a "Law Enforcement Hold" and M&H cannot release the vehicle until they receive a specific release document from the arresting agency (OCSO or CSP).

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you've located your vehicle, you'll need specific documents and payment to retrieve it.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license. If your license is suspended, see the section below.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is required.
• Proof of insurance: You must demonstrate that the vehicle is currently insured.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all applicable towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your driver's license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot legally drive the vehicle. Here are your options:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: This is the most common solution.
• 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 Ouray County

The costs associated with impoundment can add up quickly. Be prepared for the following expenses:

• Law Enforcement Tow: Approximately $200 - $300 (base hook fee).
• Storage (Under 10k lbs): $47.12 per 24 hours. This fee accrues daily, including weekends and holidays. Timber Ridge is effectively a service station. While they have standard hours, weekend releases often require coordination with the owner, which can be informal and subject to availability.
• After-Hours Release: $103.70 (charged if released outside of normal business hours, typically 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday).
• Statutory Notification: $75.00 - $150.00 (charged if the vehicle remains unclaimed for more than 2-3 days).
• Personal Property Access: $100.00 per hour (charged if you need access to the vehicle to retrieve personal belongings that are not considered life-essential).

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize expenses. If a defendant is arrested Friday night, the storage accrues over the weekend ($47.12/day), and a notification fee is likely triggered ($75.00). This can escalate the bill by over $200 simply because of the weekend delay.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. M&H Towing operates as a strict, high-volume impound facility governed rigidly by PUC rules. Some may accept cash, credit cards, or money orders. Be prepared to pay the full amount due upon arrival. Crucially, Law Enforcement Tows do not allow for a 15% down payment to retrieve a vehicle. The full balance must be paid immediately.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the amount you'll owe.

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. This means they can legally sell your vehicle. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you are struggling to afford the impound fees, consider the following:

• 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 always an option for Law Enforcement Tows, it's worth inquiring.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: An attorney may be able to negotiate fees or challenge the validity of certain charges.

After Retrieval

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any new damage that may have occurred while in impound.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear photos of any damage as evidence.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away: Obtain a written acknowledgment of the damage from the lot manager. This documentation will be essential if you need to file a claim for damages.

Navigating the vehicle impound process in Ouray County can be challenging, but understanding the steps and acting quickly will help you retrieve your vehicle as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is the Ouray Combined Court closed on Fridays, and how does this impact DUI cases? The Ouray Combined Court, located at 541 4th Street, is closed on Fridays due to budget constraints. This creates a functional three-day weekend every week, which can delay important legal processes such as bond modifications.
2. Are there any Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installers in Ouray County? No, there are no approved IID installers located in Ouray or Ridgway. The nearest installers are in Montrose, requiring a potentially expensive tow or assistance from a licensed driver to get the vehicle to the installer.
3. If my vehicle is towed to M&H Towing in Montrose, what specific documentation do I need to retrieve it? Because M&H Towing enforces "Law Enforcement Holds," you will need a specific release document from the Ouray County Sheriff's Office (OCSO) or Colorado State Patrol (CSP) before M&H will release your vehicle.