Hinsdale County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Hinsdale County

Being arrested for a DUI in Hinsdale County, Colorado, is a stressful situation. On top of navigating the legal process, you're likely worried about practical matters, including getting your vehicle back. This guide provides immediate, practical steps to retrieve your impounded car after a DUI arrest in Hinsdale County.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

Following a DUI arrest, law enforcement typically impounds your vehicle. This is standard procedure to ensure public safety and prevent further violations. Don't panic; you can get your car back, but understanding the process is crucial.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding out where your car is impounded is the first step. Due to Hinsdale County's unique characteristics, it's important to act quickly.

Official Impound Lots in Hinsdale County

Unfortunately, we don't have specific impound lot information for Hinsdale County at this time. This is often due to the county's small size and unique arrangements for vehicle impound.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Here's how to track down your vehicle:

• Call Hinsdale County Police/Sheriff: Contact the Hinsdale County Sheriff's Office. They will be able to tell you where your car was towed.
• Hinsdale County Sheriff's Office: (Insert Hinsdale County Sheriff's Office phone number when available)
• Reference your case number: Have your arrest paperwork handy; it will contain a case number that will help them locate your vehicle information.
• Most vehicles towed within 24 hours of arrest: Your car was likely towed shortly after your arrest, so act quickly.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your car is impounded, gather the necessary documents.

Required Documents

You'll generally need the following:

• Valid driver's license: This is essential. If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, see the section below.
• Vehicle registration: Proof that the vehicle is registered to you (or someone authorizing you to pick it up - see below).
• Proof of insurance: Current insurance documentation for the vehicle.
• Cash or credit card for fees: Be prepared to pay towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended or you don't have a valid driver's license, you'll need someone else to pick up the vehicle for you.

• Have someone else pick it up: This person must have a valid driver's license.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license
• Authorization from you (a signed letter stating you authorize them to retrieve the vehicle)
• A copy of the vehicle title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Hinsdale County

Understanding the costs involved is crucial. Fees accumulate quickly, so prompt action is essential.

Typical Fees (Estimates)

• Towing fee: $150-300
• Daily storage: $20-50 per day
• Administrative fees: $[Range - Insert range based on CO averages if Hinsdale specific data unavailable]
• Release fee: $[Amount - Insert amount based on CO averages if Hinsdale specific data unavailable]

IMPORTANT: These are just estimates. Contact the specific impound lot to confirm exact fees. Fees accumulate daily, so the longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes.

Payment Methods

Check with the specific impound lot to confirm accepted payment methods.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when retrieving your vehicle.

Within 24 Hours

Ideally, get your car back within 24 hours of impound. This minimizes storage fees and potential complications.

After 30 Days

If your vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot may have the right to sell it at a lien sale to recover their costs. Avoid this at all costs.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Facing financial hardship after a DUI arrest is common. Here are some options:

Options

• Borrow from family/friends: This is often the quickest and easiest solution.
• Payment plans: Some impound lots may offer payment plans, but this is not guaranteed. Inquire directly.
• Sign vehicle over to impound lot: This is a last resort. You relinquish ownership of the vehicle to avoid accruing further debt.

What NOT to Do

• Don't wait: Fees add up exponentially. Procrastination will only make the situation worse.
• Don't abandon the vehicle: Abandoning the vehicle can lead to additional legal problems and fines.

Special Situations

Certain circumstances can complicate the retrieval process.

If Your Car Was Evidence

If the police are holding your vehicle as evidence in your DUI case, it may be held for a longer period.

• May be held longer by police: Contact your attorney or the Hinsdale County District Attorney's office to determine when the vehicle will be released.
• Get release authorization first: You'll need written authorization from the police to retrieve the vehicle in this situation.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

If the vehicle is registered to someone else (e.g., a family member), they have the right to retrieve it, regardless of your license status.

• Registered owner can retrieve regardless of your situation: They will need to provide proof of ownership (vehicle title or registration) and their valid driver's license.

After Retrieval

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

Check Your Vehicle

• Document any damage immediately: Carefully inspect the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred during towing or storage.
• Take photos: Photograph any damage as evidence.
• Report damage to impound lot manager: Immediately report any damage to the impound lot manager and file a written complaint.

Hinsdale County Impound Lot Locations

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Laws and procedures can change. It is highly recommended to consult with a qualified DUI attorney in Colorado for personalized guidance regarding your specific situation.