Colorado can quickly turn into a legal minefield for anyone caught driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol. Beyond the immediate danger it poses to yourself and others, a DUI conviction in Colorado can lead to a tangled web of criminal and civil consequences, impacting your freedom, finances, and future. So, before you get behind the wheel after a few drinks, buckle up for a sobering look at the potential legal fallout of a Colorado DUI.
First Offense: A Costly Buzzkill
A first-time DUI in Colorado may seem like a slap on the wrist compared to subsequent offenses, but the sting can still be significant. Here’s what you can expect:
- Criminal Charges: Misdemeanor DUI with penalties including:
- Jail: Up to one year (although probation is more likely)
- Fines: $600 – $1,000
- Driver’s License Revocation: Nine months
- Alcohol Education: Mandatory 12-hour Level 1 course
Even for a first-time offense, an experienced attorney can help reduce the time your license is restricted and reduce probation.
Second Offense: Doubling Down on Trouble
Second-time offenders face harsher penalties, reflecting the increased risk they pose to the public. Brace yourself for:
- Criminal Charges: Misdemeanor DUI with enhanced penalties:
- Jail: 10 days – 1 year
- Fines: $600 – $1,500
- Driver’s License Revocation: Up to one year
- Alcohol Education: Mandatory 48-120 hours of Level II education
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Two years mandatory installation on your vehicle.
Third Offense and Beyond: Facing the Felony Hammer
A third DUI conviction within (7) seven years catapults you into felony territory, marking a drastic escalation in potential consequences:
- Criminal Charges: Felony DUI with even harsher penalties:
- Prison: Up to four years
- Fines: $5,000 maximum
- Driver’s License Revocation: Minimum two years, with potential lifetime revocation
- Alcohol Education: Extensive treatment programs
- IID: Mandatory installation for at least two years
Beyond the Criminal Realm: The Civil Avalanche
The legal woes don’t end with criminal charges. A DUI conviction can trigger a cascade of civil consequences, hitting you where it hurts – your wallet:
- Soaring Insurance Rates: Prepare for skyrocketing car insurance premiums, or worse, losing your coverage altogether.
- Employment Issues: Many employers have zero-tolerance policies for DUIs, potentially resulting in job termination.
- Civil Lawsuits: If your DUI causes injury or death, you could face substantial civil lawsuits and be liable for significant compensation.
- Probation ranks as one of the worst sentences. Probation comes with alcohol and drug testing and monitoring. If you fail, you can have probation revoked and go to jail. Many people go to prison for extended periods because they drank and tested positive while on probation. The same is true for marijuana and other drugs. One positive test while on probation may send you straight to jail.
- Substance rehabilitation courses and therapy are expensive. There are free resources out there. However, private rehabilitation and private treatment can cost thousands.
- Interlock devices are expensive to install and maintain. It is a service and comes with a charge!
The Human Cost: Beyond the Numbers
These statistics paint a grim picture of the human cost of DUI:
- In 2020, 29% of drivers involved in fatal crashes in the US had a BAC of 0.08 or higher.
- The average cost of a DUI in the US is $26,000. Still, it can easily reach much higher, especially with civil lawsuits involved.
- Most fatal auto accidents in Colorado had drugs, alcohol, or both involved.
When facing the harsh realities of a Colorado DUI, it’s crucial to have strong legal representation by your side. At Thomas & Ahnell, LLC, we specialize in DUI and drug-related defense, offering the expertise and dedication you need to navigate the complexities of the legal system. With our demonstrated history of success and dedication to safeguarding your rights, we stand ready to advocate for your liberty and future.
Every DUI statistic represents a shattered life, a grieving family, and a reminder of the devastating consequences of irresponsible driving. This also applies to substance abuse across all aspects of life. The DUI is simply a stark reminder of the havoc for everyone who loves you.
Don’t let a DUI derail your life. Choose Thomas & Ahnell, LLC, and let us help you minimize the impact of a DUI charge, ensuring you receive fair treatment and a chance to move forward confidently. Contact us today for a consultation and take the first step towards reclaiming control of your life. Trust Thomas & Ahnell, LLC, to be your ally in the courtroom, advocating tirelessly on your behalf. Remember, a Colorado DUI is more than just a bad hangover. It’s a recipe for legal nightmares, financial hardship, and potentially shattered lives. Choose responsibility, choose safety, and keep Colorado’s roads safe for everyone.
Sources: Colorado Revised Statutes: https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/colorado-drunk-driving-laws.pdf · Colorado Department of Revenue: https://dmv.colorado.gov/the-dui-process · National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: https://www.nhtsa.gov/laws-regulations/impaired-driving