San Juan County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in San Juan County

A DUI arrest in San Juan County can be a stressful experience, and one of the immediate concerns is often what happens to your vehicle. Colorado law allows law enforcement to impound vehicles following a DUI arrest. This guide provides practical information on locating, retrieving, and minimizing the costs associated with getting your car back.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you are arrested for DUI in Colorado, the arresting officer typically has your vehicle towed and impounded. This is done to ensure public safety and prevent further potential offenses involving the vehicle. The vehicle will be held at a contracted towing and storage facility, and you, as the owner, are responsible for all associated fees. Understanding the process and acting quickly is crucial to minimize expenses.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is determining where your vehicle was towed. This information is vital for beginning the retrieval process. Due to San Juan County's remote location, it's especially important to act quickly to avoid accumulating storage fees.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation that includes the name and contact information of the towing company used. This is the quickest way to find your car.
• Call the San Juan County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: If you cannot locate the paperwork or the information is missing, contact the San Juan County Sheriff's Office.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number available when contacting the Sheriff's Office will expedite the process.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your vehicle is impounded, gather the necessary documents for retrieval. The impound lot will require specific paperwork to verify ownership and legal authorization.

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 essential. Bring the vehicle registration or the title.
• Proof of insurance: You must demonstrate 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 driver's license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot personally retrieve the vehicle. However, you can authorize someone else to do so on your behalf.

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A person with a valid driver's license can pick up the vehicle for you.
• 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.

Costs & Fees in San Juan County

Towing and storage fees can accumulate rapidly, so understanding the cost structure is essential.

Typical towing fees in Colorado range from $150 to $300. Daily storage fees typically range from $25 to $50 per day. However, fees vary by impound lot. Contact the specific impound lot holding your vehicle to confirm their exact rates and payment policies before you go.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue daily, including weekends and holidays. The faster you retrieve your vehicle, the lower the overall cost.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to inquire about accepted payment methods. Most accept cash, and some accept credit cards or money orders. Confirm this before you go to avoid any delays or complications.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when it comes to vehicle retrieval.

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Each day that passes adds to the total cost. Contact the Sheriff's Office and the towing company as soon as possible after your release.

After 30 Days

In Colorado, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for a certain period (typically 30 days), the impound lot has the right to initiate a lien sale to recover their costs. This means they can legally sell your vehicle. Avoid this situation by acting promptly.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

The costs associated with retrieving an impounded vehicle can be substantial. If you are struggling financially, consider the following options:

• Contact a family member or friend to help cover costs: Asking for assistance from loved ones can provide immediate financial relief.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, allowing you to pay the fees in installments. Inquire about this possibility.
• Consult with your attorney: In certain circumstances, a DUI attorney may be able to negotiate with the impound lot or challenge the fees if they are deemed excessive.

After Retrieval

Once you have paid the fees and are ready to take possession of your vehicle, take the following precautions:

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Carefully examine the vehicle for any signs of damage that may have occurred while it was in the impound lot's care.
• Document any damage with photos: Take detailed photographs 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 the damage in writing before leaving the premises. This creates a record of the damage and strengthens your claim if you need to pursue compensation for repairs.

By understanding the impound process and acting swiftly, you can navigate the complexities of retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in San Juan County and minimize the financial burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I get my personal belongings out of my car before I retrieve it? Generally, yes. Contact the impound lot to arrange a time to collect personal items. You will likely need to provide identification and proof of ownership.
• What happens if I don't have the vehicle title or registration? You may be able to obtain a copy of the registration from the Colorado DMV. If you don't have the title, you might need to provide additional documentation proving ownership, such as a bill of sale or loan documents. Contact the impound lot for specific requirements.
• Does San Juan County have a public transportation option from Durango if I am released from jail there? No, there is no public transportation option from Durango to San Juan County. Buck Horn Limousine is the primary "taxi-like" option for long-distance transport, but requires a reservation. Defense counsel and family members must arrange a "jail pickup" with a private vehicle or a pre-booked shuttle before the bond is posted.