Washington County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Washington County

If you've been arrested for DUI in Washington County, Colorado, one of your immediate concerns is likely, "What happens to my car?" Vehicles are routinely impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons: the driver is unable to legally operate the vehicle, it may be considered evidence, or it's simply deemed a hazard if left unattended. This guide provides crucial steps to retrieve your vehicle quickly and efficiently from the impound lot in Washington County.

Where Is Your Car?

In Washington County, J&H Auto LLC is the primary towing vendor used by law enforcement. Your car is most likely at their impound lot.

• J&H Auto LLC
• Address: 301 E 1st St, Akron, CO 80720
• Phone: (970) 514-5299

How to Find Your Vehicle

1. Check Your Arrest Paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided you with paperwork that includes the name and contact information for the towing company that took your vehicle.
2. Call the Washington County Sheriff's Office: If you can't find the paperwork or are unsure where your vehicle was towed, contact the Washington County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line.
3. Reference Your Booking Number: Provide your booking number (also found on your release paperwork) to help them locate your vehicle information more quickly.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Be prepared with the necessary documents to streamline the retrieval process.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or a licensed person picking it up for you)
• Vehicle registration or title
• Proof of insurance
• Payment for all applicable fees

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you cannot legally drive the vehicle yourself. Here's what you need to do:

• Have a Licensed Friend or Family Member Retrieve It: Arrange for a licensed driver to pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• They Need:
• Their valid driver's license
• A signed authorization letter from you, granting them permission to retrieve the vehicle
• The vehicle title or registration in your name (or proof of ownership)

Costs & Fees in Washington County

Understanding the costs involved is essential to avoid surprises. J&H Auto charges specific fees related to towing and storage.

• Towing Fee: Approximately $279.78 per hour (according to PUC regulations).
• Daily Storage Fee: Approximately $47.12 per day.
• After-Hours Fee (if applicable): Approximately $103.70.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day, including weekends and holidays. The longer your vehicle remains at J&H Auto, the more expensive it becomes to retrieve it. A Saturday night arrest means your vehicle will likely sit in impound until Monday morning, accumulating significant storage fees.

Payment

Call J&H Auto at (970) 514-5299 before heading to the lot to confirm which payment methods they accept. They may accept cash, credit cards, or money orders. Knowing this in advance will save you time and potential frustration.

Timeline

Act Immediately

The clock starts ticking on storage fees the moment your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the total cost. If possible, arrange for someone to pick up your vehicle immediately after your arrest to avoid these escalating fees.

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

Facing a DUI is already stressful, and the added financial burden of impound fees can be overwhelming. Here are some options:

• Contact a Family Member or Friend: Ask for assistance to cover the towing and storage costs.
• Ask About a Payment Plan: While not always available, some impound lots may offer a payment plan. It's worth asking J&H Auto directly.
• Consult with a DUI Attorney: In some cases, a DUI attorney may be able to negotiate or challenge excessive impound fees.

After Retrieval

Before driving away from J&H Auto, take these crucial steps:

• Inspect the Vehicle Immediately: Carefully examine your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was in the impound lot.
• Document Any Damage: Take clear photos of any scratches, dents, or other damage you find.
• Report Damage in Writing: Immediately report any damage to the lot manager at J&H Auto before you drive the vehicle off the premises. Obtain a written acknowledgment of your report.

By following these steps, you can navigate the process of retrieving your vehicle after a DUI arrest in Washington County, Colorado, minimizing stress and unexpected costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: Can I get my personal belongings out of my car before I retrieve it from J&H Auto?*A: You can request access to your vehicle to retrieve personal belongings. Contact J&H Auto at (970) 514-5299 to arrange a time. You'll likely need to show them your driver's license and vehicle registration.

**Q: What if I can't get to J&H Auto during their business hours (Monday-Saturday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM)?*A: If you try to get it released after hours, expect an additional fee of around $103.70.

**Q: Does the Washington County Sheriff's Office need to authorize the release of my vehicle?*A: If a "police hold" has been placed on your vehicle (common in more serious DUI cases), you'll need written authorization from the Washington County Sheriff's Office (26861 US Highway 34, Akron, CO 80720) before J&H Auto will release it.