Getting a DUI In Colorado: What You Need to Know
DUI enforcement has stepped up in its profile over the last several decades. Due to many deaths and injuries caused by impaired driving, this has become a greater priority for law enforcement agencies statewide and nationwide.Â
More than ever, police agencies conduct random DUI checkpoints. There are other times where it is patently clear that a driver is impaired. In other instances, it may be a situation where a routine traffic stop leads to greater suspicion.
This isn't an article about getting out of a DUI: It is more so a resource of information. The best recourse is to use a designated driver, taxi, or ride share app. The costs of obtaining a DUI are simply overbearing. When that's taken into consideration, why not do your due dilligence and make other plans if you know that there is a likelyhood that you may be impaired (and thus in no shape to get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle)?
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With that said, let's break into the details.
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Getting Stopped
If an officer suspects that you may be driving impaired, either before or after a traffic stop, you may be required to undergo field sobriety tests. It is also possible that the officer may require you to take a breathalyzer test. Failing to meet sobriety requirements will lead to an arrest.
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What are the Legal Limits in Colorado?
If you are over 21, the legal limit of BAC is 0.08%; Under 21 it is 0.02%
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Penalties for a First Time DUI.
In the state of Colorado, a first time DUI may result in up to 180 days in jail, $1000 fine and a 9 month license suspension.Â
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Defending a DUI
A DUI defense case can come down to a number of circumstances: How was the stop conducted? Were all the defendent's rights granted? What type of sobriety tests were used? How can their accurate results be verified?
In some instances, it is possible to plea to a lesser charge, however, this is not always the case.
Other factors may include prior criminal history, the BAC at the time of the arrest, among other details.Â
Ultimately, the best recourse, simply put, is to not get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle if you have consumed more than what is legally or practically acceptable.
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DUI Resources in Colorado:
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Colorado DMV
Jim Forslund, Colorado DUI Defense Attorney