Sedgwick County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Sedgwick County

After a DUI arrest in Sedgwick County, Colorado, one of the most immediate concerns is retrieving your vehicle. Your car is typically impounded following a DUI arrest to prevent further potential offenses and to ensure public safety. Understanding the process, required documents, associated costs, and critical timelines is essential to minimize expenses and avoid further complications. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to recovering your vehicle as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Where Is Your Car?

In Sedgwick County, vehicles are typically towed by private towing companies operating on a rotation list managed by the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office. Unlike municipalities with their own impound lots, the county relies on these private operators to ensure equitable distribution of work.

Currently, the dominant towing operator is:

Steve's Towing & Recovery LLC Address: Julesburg Phone: N/A Daily Fee: $N/A

How to Find Your Vehicle

Here are a few ways to pinpoint the location of your impounded vehicle:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided documentation indicating the name of the towing company and potentially their contact information.
• Call the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line: Contact the Sheriff’s Office at 315 Cedar St, Julesburg, at 970-474-3355. Provide your name, date of birth, and the date of your arrest. They should be able to provide the name and contact information for the towing company that impounded your vehicle.
• Reference your booking number: Having your booking number readily available when contacting the Sheriff's Office can expedite the process.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, ensure you have all the necessary documentation to avoid delays and additional trips.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must possess a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration or title: Proof of ownership is required to claim the vehicle. Bring either 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 associated towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot personally retrieve the vehicle. In this case, you have two primary options:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: A licensed individual can pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• They need: Their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you explicitly granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle, and the vehicle title or registration in your name.

Costs & Fees in Sedgwick County

Understanding the costs associated with impoundment is crucial for planning and budgeting. Towing fees in rural Colorado can be substantial due to mileage.

• Base Hook Fee: Typically $150-$250.
• Mileage: $3-$5 per mile.
• Storage: Steve's Towing & Recovery LLC charges $N/A per day for storage.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accrue every calendar day, including weekends and holidays. A Friday night arrest with a Monday morning release will result in a minimum of three days of storage fees.

Payment

Contact Steve's Towing & Recovery LLC in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Most impound lots accept cash, but it's essential to verify if they also accept credit cards or money orders.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing the moment your vehicle is towed. Every passing day significantly increases the overall cost.

After 30 Days

In Colorado, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended 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. Do everything possible to retrieve your vehicle before it reaches this point.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Facing financial hardship after a DUI arrest is common. Here are some strategies to consider if you are struggling to afford the impound fees:

• Contact a family member or friend: Reach out to your support network for potential financial assistance.
• Ask the impound lot if a payment plan is available: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, allowing you to pay off the fees in installments. Inquire about this possibility.
• Consult with a DUI attorney: A DUI attorney may be able to negotiate with the impound lot or challenge the fees in certain circumstances.

After Retrieval

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

• Inspect the vehicle immediately before leaving the lot: Thoroughly examine the vehicle for any signs of damage that may have occurred while in impound.
• Document any damage with photos: Take clear and detailed photographs of any dents, scratches, 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 your claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where will I be released after posting bail in Sedgwick County? A: Due to the "Hub-and-Spoke" detention model, you might be released from the Logan County Justice Center in Sterling, which is about 50 miles from Julesburg. Confirm the release location with the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office when bond is posted.

Q: What happens if I can't pick up my car from Steve's Towing & Recovery during their business hours? A: Contact Steve's Towing & Recovery LLC directly to inquire about their hours of operation and any after-hours retrieval options. Be aware that additional fees may apply for after-hours service.

Q: Can I get a Personal Recognizance (PR) bond to avoid paying bail and get my car back faster? A: PR bonds are typically reserved for local residents with strong community ties. Out-of-state defendants arrested on I-76 are rarely granted PR bonds initially due to flight risk concerns.