Routt County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Routt County

Being arrested for DUI in Routt County can be a stressful and confusing experience. One immediate concern is often: what happens to my car? Colorado law enforcement officers typically impound vehicles after a DUI arrest for several reasons: to prevent further illegal operation of the vehicle, as part of evidence gathering, or due to mandatory impound policies. Understanding the process for retrieving your vehicle is crucial to minimize costs and avoid further complications. This guide provides practical steps to help you navigate the impound process in Routt County.

Where Is Your Car?

After a DUI arrest, your vehicle is likely towed to a private impound lot contracted by the Routt County Sheriff's Office or the Steamboat Springs Police Department. The arresting officer should inform you of the towing company's name and location. However, if you were unable to obtain this information at the time of arrest, there are a few ways to locate your vehicle.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The paperwork provided by the arresting officer should list the name and contact information for the towing company that has your vehicle. This is the fastest way to find out where your car is located.
• Call the Routt County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot locate the paperwork, call the Routt County Combined Communication Center at 970-879-1090. They can direct you to the appropriate towing company based on your arrest location and time. Be prepared to provide your name, date of birth, and the approximate location of your arrest.
• Reference your booking number: If you have your booking number from the Routt County Detention Center, this can further assist in locating your vehicle.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Retrieving your vehicle requires presenting specific documents and paying associated fees. Be prepared to provide the following:

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or a licensed person picking it up for you): You or the person retrieving the vehicle must have a currently valid driver's license. The towing company is legally required to verify this.
• Vehicle registration or title: You must provide proof of ownership. A copy of the vehicle registration or the vehicle title is acceptable.
• Proof of insurance: Colorado law requires all vehicles to be insured. You must provide proof of current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
• Payment for fees: Towing and storage fees must be paid before the vehicle is released.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your driver's license is suspended or revoked due to the DUI arrest, you cannot personally retrieve the vehicle. 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 license, a signed authorization letter from you, and the vehicle title or registration. The authorization letter should clearly state that you authorize them to retrieve the vehicle and include your signature.

Costs & Fees in Routt County

The costs associated with vehicle impoundment in Routt County can add up quickly. It's essential to understand the fee structure to avoid surprises. According to the PUC towing rate sheets, here are some fees to expect.

Typical towing fees in Colorado for law enforcement-ordered tows range from $239.88 - $245.32. Daily storage fees are generally $46.08 - $47.12 per day. An after-hours release fee of $101.40 - $103.70 may be charged if you retrieve the vehicle before 8:00 AM, after 5:00 PM, or anytime on weekends/holidays. Additional fees may include administration/notification fees ($75.00 - $150.00), mileage charges (~$3.80/mile), and a variable fuel surcharge. Fees vary by lot — call ahead to confirm before you go.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily, starting almost immediately after the vehicle is towed. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible to minimize expenses. Defense counsel should almost always advise clients to retrieve the vehicle immediately, paying the after-hours fee. If the defendant cannot get to the lot by 5:00 PM on Monday (perhaps due to court or work), a third day of storage accrues, making the "wait and save" strategy a financial loss.

Payment

Call the impound lot in advance to confirm accepted payment methods. Most accept cash and credit cards, but some may also accept money orders. Be aware that some payment methods, particularly credit cards used at jail kiosks, may incur additional fees.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when it comes to vehicle impoundment. Understanding the timeline can help you avoid additional costs and potential loss of your vehicle.

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes costs more money. Contact the towing company as soon as possible to arrange for retrieval.

After 30 Days

If a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period, most states allow the impound lot to initiate a lien sale. This means they can sell your vehicle to recover the unpaid towing and storage fees. Do not let it reach this point. Contact the impound lot immediately if you are facing difficulties retrieving your vehicle.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

The costs associated with retrieving an impounded vehicle can be substantial, especially when facing other expenses related to a DUI arrest. If you are struggling to afford the fees, consider the following options:

• Contact a family member or friend to help cover costs: Reaching out to your support network can provide immediate financial assistance.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available (some offer this): Some impound lots may offer payment plans, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. However, be prepared to pay interest or additional fees for this service.
• Consult with your attorney — in some cases fees can be negotiated or challenged: A DUI attorney may be able to negotiate with the towing company or challenge the fees if they are excessive or unjustified.

After Retrieval

Once you have retrieved your vehicle, take the following steps:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred during the towing or storage process.
• Document any damage with photos: Take photos of any damage as evidence.
• 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 will help protect your rights if you need to file a claim for damages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I find out which towing company has my car in Routt County? A: Check your arrest paperwork or call the Routt County Combined Communication Center at 970-879-1090.

Q: What happens if I can't pick up my car during regular business hours? A: You will likely be charged an after-hours release fee, which can significantly increase the cost of retrieval. Rocky Mountain Towing aggressively markets its "24/7/365" availability, a logistical asset for defendants released from jail at odd hours.

Q: Can someone else pick up my car for me if my license is suspended? A: Yes, a licensed driver can retrieve your vehicle with a signed authorization letter from you and proof of ownership.