Montezuma County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Montezuma County

Being arrested for a DUI in Montezuma County, Colorado, is a stressful experience. On top of the legal ramifications, you're likely wondering what happened to your vehicle. This guide will walk you through the process of retrieving your impounded car, helping you navigate the steps and understand the costs involved. We understand this is a difficult time, and we aim to provide clear, practical information.

Your Vehicle After a DUI Arrest

When you're arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Colorado, your vehicle is typically impounded. This is standard procedure to ensure public safety and prevent further potential offenses. The impound is usually handled by the arresting officer, who arranges for a towing company to transport your vehicle to an official impound lot. Understanding this process is the first step in getting your car back.

Where Is Your Car?

Locating your vehicle is the first critical step. Here's how to find out where it was towed:

Official Impound Lots in Montezuma County

Unfortunately, we don't currently have specific information on official impound lots in Montezuma County. However, you can find out where your vehicle is located by following the steps below. We are actively working on gathering this data for you.

How to Find Your Vehicle

• Call Montezuma County Police/Sheriff: The most direct route is to contact the Montezuma County Sheriff's Office. You can typically reach them at their non-emergency number.
• Reference your case number: When you call, provide your name, date of birth, and, most importantly, your case number (if you have it). This will help them quickly locate the information about your vehicle.
• Most vehicles towed within 24 hours of arrest: Generally, your vehicle will be towed to an impound lot within 24 hours of your arrest. This means you should start the search process as soon as possible.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once you know where your vehicle is impounded, you'll need to gather the necessary documents for retrieval.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license (or someone with a valid license): The person retrieving the vehicle must have a valid driver's license. If your license is suspended due to the DUI arrest, you'll need someone else to pick up the car.
• Vehicle registration: You'll need the vehicle's current registration.
• Proof of insurance: You'll need proof of valid insurance for the vehicle.
• Cash or credit card for fees: Impound lots typically accept cash or credit cards for payment. Contact the specific impound lot to confirm their accepted payment methods.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your license is suspended, you'll need someone else to retrieve the vehicle for you. Here's what they'll need:

• Their valid driver's license.
• Written authorization from you: A signed letter authorizing them to pick up the vehicle on your behalf.
• Vehicle title or registration: Proof of ownership, such as the vehicle title or registration.

Costs & Fees in Montezuma County

Understanding the costs involved is crucial. Impound fees can add up quickly.

Typical Fees

• Towing fee: Expect a towing fee in the range of $150 to $300.
• Daily storage: Daily storage fees typically range from $20 to $50 per day.
• Administrative fees: There may be administrative fees associated with the impound, potentially ranging from $[range]. We are working to obtain specific data for Montezuma County.
• Release fee: A release fee may also be required, potentially around $[amount]. We are working to obtain specific data for Montezuma County.

IMPORTANT: These fees accumulate daily. The longer you wait to retrieve your vehicle, the more you will owe. Contact the impound lot directly for their specific fee schedule.

Payment Methods

[We are currently gathering information about accepted payment methods at Montezuma County impound lots. Contact the specific impound lot to confirm their accepted payment methods, such as cash, credit card, or money order.]

Timeline

Time is of the essence when it comes to retrieving your vehicle.

Within 24 Hours

Aim to retrieve your vehicle as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours of impoundment. This will minimize the daily storage fees.

After 30 Days

If your vehicle remains unclaimed for 30 days or more, the impound lot may have the right to sell it at a lien sale to recover their 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: Consider asking family or friends for assistance with the fees.
• Payment plans: Some impound lots may offer payment plans. Inquire about this possibility.
• Sign vehicle over to impound lot: As a last resort, you may be able to sign the vehicle over to the impound lot to avoid accumulating further debt. However, you will lose ownership of the car.

What NOT to Do

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

Special Situations

Certain situations require extra attention.

If Your Car Was Evidence

If the police are holding your car as evidence related to your DUI case, it may be held for a longer period. You'll need to obtain a release authorization from the investigating officer or the court before you can retrieve it.

If Someone Else Owns the Car

If the car is registered to someone else (e.g., a family member), the registered owner can 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 have your vehicle back, take these precautions:

Check Your Vehicle

Thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred during the towing or while it was stored at the impound lot.

Document Any Damage Immediately

Take photos and document any damage you find.

Report Damage to Impound Lot Manager

Report any damage to the impound lot manager immediately. This will help you file a claim if necessary.

Montezuma County Impound Lot Locations

[We are currently gathering information about specific impound lot locations in Montezuma County. We will update this section as soon as possible. In the meantime, please contact the Montezuma County Sheriff's Office to determine where your vehicle is located. They can provide you with the impound lot's address and contact information.]

This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. If you are facing DUI charges in Montezuma County, it is crucial to consult with an experienced Colorado DUI attorney. They can advise you on your legal rights and options and help you navigate the complex legal process.