Pitkin County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Pitkin County

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

Following a DUI arrest in Pitkin County, Colorado, one of the first things you'll likely be concerned about is your vehicle. Law enforcement typically impounds vehicles after a DUI arrest for several reasons, including preventing further offenses and ensuring public safety. Understanding the impound process and acting quickly is crucial to minimize costs and avoid further complications. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to retrieving your vehicle and navigating the associated challenges in Pitkin County.

Where Is Your Car?

Your vehicle is most likely at one of two locations:

• Pitkin County Landfill Impound: Located at 32046 Jack Gredig Lane, Aspen, CO 81611.
• Shaun’s Towing and Recovery (Basalt Yard): Located at 82 Duroux Lane, Basalt, CO 81621.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Determining the exact location of your vehicle is the first step. Here's how:

• Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer should have indicated the towing company and impound location on the paperwork provided at the time of your arrest.
• Call the Pitkin County Sheriff's Office: If the information isn't readily available, you can contact the Pitkin County Jail at (970) 920-5310 for assistance.
• Reference Your Booking Number: Have your booking number ready when you call, as this will help them locate your vehicle information more quickly.

Important Note: It is crucial to determine which lot your vehicle is located at before heading to either location. Shaun's Towing operates two locations: the primary yard in Basalt and the Pitkin County Landfill Impound lot in Aspen. Showing up at the wrong location wastes valuable time.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Retrieving your vehicle requires specific documentation and payment. Be prepared to present the following:

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License: The person driving the vehicle off the lot must have a valid driver's license. If your license has been confiscated due to Colorado's Express Consent laws, you'll need to bring someone with a valid license.
• Vehicle Registration or Title: You must provide proof of ownership. This can be either the vehicle's registration or title.
• Proof of Insurance: While not always required, it's a good idea to have proof of insurance for the vehicle.
• Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay all applicable towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or revoked, you'll need to have someone else retrieve the vehicle for you. They will need:

• Their Valid Driver's License: The person driving the vehicle must have a valid, unexpired license.
• A Signed Authorization Letter from You: A written and signed letter authorizing them to pick up the vehicle on your behalf (this may need to be notarized — call ahead to confirm).
• Vehicle Title or Registration: As proof of ownership.

Important Note for Tourists: If the vehicle is registered to someone else (e.g., a spouse, parent, or leasing company), Shaun's Towing requires a notarized Absentee Authorization and Hold Harmless Agreement. This means the registered owner must physically find a notary, sign the specific form provided by Shaun's Towing, and submit it before release is permitted. Contact Shaun's Towing to get the form.

Costs & Fees in Pitkin County

Towing and storage fees can add up quickly. Contact the specific impound lot where your vehicle is located to confirm the exact fees.

• Daily Storage Fee: Contact the specific impound lot for the exact daily storage fee.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day, including weekends and holidays. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize expenses.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Shaun's Towing typically accepts:

• Cash (exact change only)
• Credit cards (with a 4% fee)

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day you delay costs more money. Furthermore, if towed by the Aspen Police Department, you may need a release authorization from the Aspen Parking Department at 427 Rio Grande Place, which is only open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. If your vehicle is towed on a Friday evening, this "weekend trap" guarantees three days of storage fees.

After 30 Days

After 30 days from the impound date, your vehicle is subject to foreclosure proceedings. The impound lot can initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. Do not let it reach this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

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

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Ask if they can help cover the costs.
• Ask About a Payment Plan: Some impound lots may offer a payment plan, allowing you to pay the fees in installments.
• Consult with a DUI Attorney: A DUI attorney may be able to negotiate the fees or challenge them in certain circumstances.

After Retrieval

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately: Before leaving the lot, carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Document Any Damage: Take photos of any damage you find.
• Report Any Damage: Report any damage to the impound lot manager in writing before you drive away. This documentation will be crucial if you need to file a claim for damages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happens if I don't retrieve my vehicle from the impound lot in Pitkin County? A: After 30 days, the impound lot can begin foreclosure proceedings and sell your vehicle to cover the outstanding fees.

Q: Can I get a temporary license to retrieve my vehicle if my license was suspended due to the DUI arrest? A: No, Colorado law does not provide for temporary licenses for this purpose. You will need to have a licensed driver retrieve the vehicle on your behalf.

Q: If my car was impounded because of a DUI arrest, will I have to pay for towing and storage fees even if I am found not guilty? A: Yes, you are responsible for the towing and storage fees regardless of the outcome of your DUI case.