La Plata County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in La Plata County

Being arrested for a DUI in La Plata County, Colorado is a stressful experience. On top of dealing with the legal ramifications, you also have to figure out what to do with your vehicle. Typically, after a DUI arrest, your car is impounded. This guide provides practical information on how to retrieve your vehicle as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in La Plata County, law enforcement will often impound your vehicle. This is standard procedure to ensure public safety and prevent further illegal operation of the vehicle. Understanding the process and acting quickly is key to minimizing costs and getting your car back.

Where Is Your Car?

The first step is figuring out where your car is being held. It's likely at an official impound lot contracted by the La Plata County Sheriff's Office or the relevant police department.

Official Impound Lots in La Plata County

Unfortunately, we don't have specific impound lot data for La Plata County at this time. However, you can quickly find out where your vehicle is located by contacting the authorities.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Call La Plata County Police/Sheriff: Contact the La Plata County Sheriff's Office or the police department that arrested you.
• Reference your case number: Have your case number or arrest information ready to provide to the officer. This will help them quickly locate your vehicle's location.
• Most vehicles towed within 24 hours of arrest: Typically, vehicles are towed to the impound lot within 24 hours of the arrest.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your car is, you need to gather the necessary documents to retrieve it. Here's a checklist:

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: You (or the person retrieving the vehicle) must have a valid driver's license.
• Vehicle registration: Proof that the vehicle is registered to you (or the person authorized to pick it up).
• Proof of insurance: Current insurance policy covering the vehicle.
• Cash or credit card for fees: Be prepared to pay towing, storage, and administrative fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

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

• Their valid driver's license.
• Authorization from you: A signed letter or document authorizing them to retrieve the vehicle on your behalf. Contact the impound lot to confirm their specific requirements for authorization.
• Vehicle title/registration: Proof of ownership or registration.

Costs & Fees in La Plata County

Understanding the costs involved is crucial. These fees can quickly add up, so acting fast is essential.

Typical Fees

• Towing fee: Expect to pay between $150 and $300 for the towing service.
• Daily storage: Storage fees typically range from $20 to $50 per day. This is where the costs can quickly escalate.
• Administrative fees: These fees vary but can range anywhere from $25 - $75.
• Release fee: A fee charged for releasing the vehicle, typically around $50.

IMPORTANT: Fees accumulate daily. The longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes. Prioritize getting your car back as soon as possible.

Payment Methods

Contact the specific impound lot to confirm which payment methods they accept. Most accept:

• Cash
• Credit Card (Visa, Mastercard, Discover)

Some may accept debit cards or money orders, but it's best to confirm beforehand.

Timeline

Time is of the essence when dealing with vehicle impound.

Within 24 Hours

Aim to retrieve your vehicle within 24 hours of the impound to minimize storage fees. This is the most cost-effective approach.

After 30 Days

If the vehicle remains unclaimed for an extended period (typically 30 days), the impound lot may initiate a lien sale. This means they can sell your vehicle to recover the outstanding fees.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Facing financial difficulties after a DUI arrest is common. Here are some options if you can't afford the impound fees:

Options

• Borrow from family/friends: This is often the quickest and easiest solution.
• Payment plans: Some impound lots may offer payment plans. Inquire about this possibility.
• Sign vehicle over to the impound lot: As a last resort, you can sign the vehicle title over to the impound lot to avoid accumulating further debt. This means you lose the car, but you won't be responsible for the mounting fees.

What NOT to Do

• Don't wait: Procrastination will only increase the fees.
• Don't abandon the vehicle: Abandoning the vehicle can lead to further legal issues and penalties.

Special Situations

Certain circumstances can complicate the retrieval process.

If Your Car Was Evidence

If the police are holding your car as evidence in your DUI case, it may be held longer. You will need to obtain a release authorization from the La Plata County District Attorney's office or the investigating officer before the impound lot will release the vehicle.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

If the vehicle is registered to someone else (e.g., a family member or leasing company), the registered owner has the right to retrieve the vehicle regardless of your situation. They will need to provide proof of ownership (title or registration) and their valid driver's license.

After Retrieval

Once you've retrieved your vehicle, take these steps:

Check Your Vehicle

Thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.

Document any damage immediately

Take detailed photos and notes of any scratches, dents, or other damage.

Take photos

Photographic evidence is crucial for filing a claim.

Report damage to impound lot manager

Report any damage to the impound lot manager immediately and obtain a written record of your report. You may need this for insurance purposes.

La Plata County Impound Lot Locations

As mentioned earlier, we don't have a database of specific impound lot locations for La Plata County. To find the specific location of your vehicle, contact the La Plata County Sheriff's Office or the police department that made the arrest. They will be able to provide you with the name and address of the impound lot holding your car.

This guide provides a general overview of the vehicle impound and retrieval process in La Plata County after a DUI arrest. Remember to act quickly, gather the necessary documentation, and contact the relevant authorities to ensure a smooth and cost-effective retrieval.

Disclaimer: This information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult with an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.