Kit Carson County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Kit Carson County

Being arrested for a DUI in Kit Carson County, Colorado is stressful enough. Add to that the impoundment of your vehicle, and it can feel overwhelming. This guide provides immediate, practical steps you can take to retrieve your car as quickly and affordably as possible. Remember, time is of the essence to minimize impound fees.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI in Kit Carson County (driving under the influence) with a BAC (blood alcohol content) of 0.08 or higher, the arresting officer typically impounds your vehicle. This is done for several reasons:

• Public Safety: To prevent you from driving while impaired again.
• Evidence: In some cases, the vehicle itself might be considered evidence in the case.
• Standard Procedure: It’s a common practice following DUI arrests in Colorado.

The good news is you can get your car back. The key is understanding the process and acting quickly.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding your car is the first crucial step. Because Kit Carson County has a relatively small population spread across a large area, knowing where your vehicle is impounded can be tricky.

Official Impound Lots in Kit Carson County

Unfortunately, we don't currently have a database of specific impound lots for Kit Carson County. As we gather data, we will update this section.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Here's how to locate your impounded vehicle:

• Call Kit Carson County Police/Sheriff: Start by contacting the law enforcement agency that arrested you. They will have a record of where your vehicle was towed.
• Possible Contact Number: Search online for "Kit Carson County Sheriff's Department" or "Kit Carson County Police" to find their official phone number.
• Reference Your Case Number: When you call, provide your name, date of birth, and the case number assigned to your DUI arrest. This will help them quickly locate your vehicle information.
• Most Vehicles Towed Within 24 Hours of Arrest: Generally, towing companies are prompt, so your vehicle should be at an impound lot within 24 hours of your arrest.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

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

Required Documents

• Valid Driver's License (or someone with a valid license): You, or the person retrieving the vehicle on your behalf, must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle Registration: Proof that the vehicle is registered.
• Proof of Insurance: Current insurance documentation for the vehicle.
• Cash or Credit Card for Fees: Impound lots typically accept cash and major credit cards. Call ahead to confirm their accepted payment methods.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

A suspended license due to the DUI arrest is a common situation. Here's what to do:

• Have Someone Else Pick It Up: The easiest solution is to have a friend or family member with a valid driver's license retrieve the vehicle.
• They Need:
• Their valid driver's license.
• A signed authorization letter from you (stating they have permission to pick up your car).
• A copy of the vehicle title or registration (proving ownership).

Costs & Fees in Kit Carson County

This is where things can get expensive quickly. Impound fees accumulate daily, so prompt action is crucial.

Typical Fees

• Towing Fee: Expect to pay between $150 and $300 for the initial tow.
• Daily Storage: Storage fees typically range from $20 to $50 per day. This is the fee that adds up fastest, so retrieve your vehicle ASAP.
• Administrative Fees: These can vary. We recommend confirming the exact amount with the impound lot.
• Release Fee: This is a one-time fee charged for releasing the vehicle. Check with the impound lot for the specific amount.

IMPORTANT: Fees accumulate daily. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes to get your car back.

Payment Methods

We don't yet have payment method data for specific impound lots in Kit Carson County. Call the impound lot ahead of time to confirm whether they accept cash, credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), or other forms of payment.

Timeline

Understanding the timeline is crucial to avoid further complications and expenses.

Within 24 Hours

Your goal should be to retrieve your car within 24 hours of the impound. This minimizes daily storage fees and prevents the situation from escalating.

After 30 Days

In Colorado, if a vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot has the right to sell it at a lien sale to recover their costs. You'll lose your vehicle and still potentially owe money.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Financial hardship is a common concern after a DUI arrest. 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 with the lot.
• Sign Vehicle Over to Impound Lot: This is a last resort. You can sign the title over to the impound lot to cover the fees. You will lose your car, but you'll avoid accumulating further debt.

What NOT to Do

• Don't Wait: Fees add up fast. Procrastination will only make the situation worse.
• Don't Abandon the Vehicle: Abandoning the vehicle is illegal and can result in further fines and legal trouble.

Special Situations

If Your Car Was Evidence

If the police believe your vehicle contains evidence related to your DUI arrest, they may hold it for a longer period. You'll need to obtain a release authorization from the police department before the impound lot will release it.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

If the vehicle is registered to someone else (e.g., a family member, a leasing company), the registered owner has the right to retrieve the vehicle, 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've retrieved your vehicle, take these important steps:

Check Your Vehicle

Thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred during the towing or storage process.

Document Any Damage Immediately

Take photos and videos of any damage you find.

Report Damage to Impound Lot Manager

Immediately report any damage to the impound lot manager and file a written claim. Obtain a copy of the claim for your records.

Kit Carson County Impound Lot Locations

[Note: We are actively working to compile a comprehensive list of impound lot locations in Kit Carson County. Please check back soon for updated information. In the meantime, contact the Kit Carson County Sheriff's Department or local police for assistance in locating your vehicle.]

We understand this is a difficult situation. By acting quickly and following these steps, you can retrieve your vehicle and begin to address the legal challenges associated with your DUI arrest. Remember to consult with a qualified Colorado DUI attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.