The Rockies aren’t the only thing sky high in the State of Colorado. The DUI penalties are, too. So if you’ve been charged with a DUI and live in Colorado – listen up! We’ve got the 411 on everything you need to know from penalties to what you can expect to face in court to Colorado’s DUI laws. This is why it is imperative to seek a highly skilled DUI attorney in Colorado.
The Colorado BAC Limit
Any driver with a blood alcohol content of .08% or higher is considered DUI in Colorado. How is your BAC measured? Police will ask you to submit to a chemical test: blood, breath or urine. You should know that under Colorado’s Implied Consent law, refusing to take the test can lead to other serious penalties. A breath test is given by police, however blood and urine tests must be administered by proper medical personnel.
DUI Penalties in Colorado
You’ve just been arrested for a DUI and you’re wondering what penalties you’ll face. Here’s the low down. Depending on the specifics of your case, your fine will be between $300 and $1500. Your insurance rates will most likely increase and you may be instructed to take alcohol treatment. The judge may order you to spend time in jail. In fact, if your BAC was over .20% there is a mandatory 10-day jail sentence with up to 1 year possible jail time. Your fine will also increase from the range of $500 to $1500. Your license will be suspended for 1 year and you’ll be ordered 60 to 120 hours of community service. A device called an ignition interlock system may be installed in your car at your expense. You must breathe into the machine alcohol-free in order to start your vehicle.
Zero Tolerance
If you’re under 21 and your BAC was .02% or more, you are DUI. The penalties are 1 year license revocation and other criminal charges will be filed against you.
Understanding Field Sobriety Tests
The Colorado police pulled you over, asked you to step out of the car and perform tests. What were they doing? This is field sobriety testing. Many police use the HGN (horizontal gaze nystagmus), the Walk and Turn and the One Leg Stand. These tests look for involuntary eye jerking, loss of balance and coordination – all symptoms associated with alcohol consumption.
While you may think you’re fighting a losing battle – don’t give up! Contact an experienced DUI defense attorney right in Colorado. They can help you win your case.
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