Logan County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Logan County

Being arrested for a DUI in Logan County, Colorado is stressful enough. On top of the legal challenges, you’re likely dealing with the immediate issue of your impounded vehicle. This guide provides practical information on how to navigate the impound process and get your car back as quickly and affordably as possible. Time is of the essence – daily storage fees add up fast!

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Logan County, your vehicle is often impounded by law enforcement. This is done for several reasons:

• Public Safety: To prevent you from driving under the influence again immediately.
• Evidence: Your vehicle might be considered evidence in your DUI case.
• Standard Procedure: Impoundment is a common procedure following a DUI arrest in Colorado.

Understanding why your car was impounded is the first step in getting it back.

Where Is Your Car?

Finding out where your vehicle is located is your top priority.

Official Impound Lots in Logan County

Unfortunately, we don't have specific impound lot data for Logan County at this time. However, you can find your car using the methods below.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Call Logan County Police/Sheriff: Contact the Logan County Sheriff's Department. You can likely find their non-emergency phone number through a quick online search (e.g., "Logan County Sheriff's Department phone number").
• Reference your case number: When you call, be sure to have your arrest paperwork handy. It will contain a case number or booking number, which will help them locate your vehicle.
• Most vehicles towed within 24 hours of arrest: Your car will typically be towed to an impound lot within 24 hours of your arrest. The police should be able to tell you exactly where it was taken.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, make sure you have all the necessary documents. Missing paperwork will only delay the process and increase your storage fees.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or someone with a valid license): The person retrieving the vehicle 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: Be prepared to pay the towing and storage fees. Check with the impound lot about accepted payment methods beforehand.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license was suspended due to the DUI arrest, you'll need someone else to pick up the vehicle.

• Have someone else pick it up: A friend or family member with a valid license can retrieve the car for you.
• They need:
• Their valid driver's license
• Authorization from you (a signed letter giving them permission)
• Vehicle title or registration (to prove ownership or authorization)

Costs & Fees in Logan County

The costs associated with retrieving your vehicle can be significant. Be prepared for the following:

Typical Fees

• Towing fee: $150-300 (This can vary depending on the distance towed and the type of vehicle.)
• Daily storage: $20-50 per day (This is where costs can really add up quickly!)
• Administrative fees: $[15-50]
• Release fee: $[10-30]

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

Payment Methods

[This information would ideally come from the impound lot data. For now, assume common methods.]

• Generally, impound lots accept cash and major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover). Some may also accept debit cards. It's best to call the impound lot ahead of time to confirm their accepted payment methods.

Timeline

Understanding the timeline is crucial for minimizing costs and avoiding further complications.

Within 24 Hours

• This is the ideal timeframe to retrieve your vehicle. You'll avoid accumulating multiple days of storage fees.

After 30 Days

• If the vehicle remains unclaimed after 30 days, the impound lot may have the legal right to sell it at a lien sale to recover their costs. You'll lose your vehicle and potentially still owe money.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

Facing a DUI arrest can strain your finances. If you're struggling to afford the impound fees, consider these options:

Options

• Borrow from family/friends: This is often the quickest and easiest solution.
• Payment plans (some lots offer this): Inquire with the impound lot about payment plan options. Some may be willing to work with you.
• Sign vehicle over to impound lot (avoid debt but lose car): This is a last resort. You can sign the title over to the impound lot to cover the fees, but you will permanently lose ownership of your vehicle.

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 can lead to further legal consequences and fines.

Special Situations

Certain situations may require additional steps or considerations.

If Your Car Was Evidence

• May be held longer by police: If your vehicle is being held as evidence, it may take longer to get it back.
• Get release authorization first: Before going to the impound lot, contact the Logan County Sheriff's Department and obtain written authorization for the vehicle's release.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

• Registered owner can retrieve regardless of your situation: The registered owner of the vehicle has the right to retrieve it, regardless of your DUI arrest.
• They'll need proof of ownership: The registered owner will need to provide proof of ownership (title or registration) and their valid driver's license.

After Retrieval

Once you have your vehicle back, take these steps:

Check Your Vehicle

• Document any damage immediately: Carefully inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred while it was impounded.
• Take photos: Take clear photos of any damage as proof.
• Report damage to impound lot manager: Immediately report any damage to the impound lot manager and file a written claim.

Logan County Impound Lot Locations

We are working to gather specific impound lot information for Logan County, CO. In the meantime, the best course of action is to contact the Logan County Sheriff's Department directly to determine where your vehicle is located.

This guide is intended to provide general information and should not be considered legal advice. If you have been arrested for DUI in Logan County, it is essential to consult with an experienced Colorado DUI attorney as soon as possible. They can help you understand your rights and navigate the legal process.