Colorado DUI Consequences
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If you’re like most people, you probably learned about the dangers of driving under the influence (DUI) long before you became a licensed driver. Nevertheless, alcohol continues to be one of the leading causes of auto collisions in the United States—and each year countless drivers are arrested and charged with DUI. In light of these numbers, lawmakers have begun to crack down on drunk drivers by imposing tougher penalties than ever for those who are convicted of the offense. Colorado, with its stringent sentencing requirements, is one of the toughest states in the nation when it comes to DUI. As a result, a drunk driving conviction can often lead to a number of life-altering Colorado DUI consequences.
Assuming this is your first DUI conviction, the sentence for a Colorado DUI conviction may include a nine-month license suspension, minimum $600 fine, and up to 96 hours of community service. In addition, you may spend 48 hours or more behind bars—although this penalty is typically waived for first offenders if they agree to undergo treatment for alcohol abuse.
Understandably, if you have a prior DUI conviction on your record, you can expect to face even harsher penalties than those listed above, including a more expensive fine and a longer license suspension. It will also be more difficult to avoid jail time if you are found guilty of drunk driving for a second time—and, of course, these penalties only increase with each subsequent conviction.
Regardless of whether you are a first-time offender or a habitual drunk driver, the consequences of a DUI conviction will haunt you long after you’ve completed the terms of your sentence. For example, once your insurance company learns of your offense, your auto insurance rates are sure to increase, and you can expect to pay two to three times more for coverage as a result.
What’s more, since your crime will be permanently reflected on your criminal record, you may encounter difficulties anytime you apply for a new job or search for housing in the future. In some cases, you may even be ineligible for certain financial aid and educational grants.
The good news, however, is that being arrested for DUI is very different than being convicted of the offense. With the right defense strategy, many Colorado drivers are able to successfully challenge their arrest and reduce or avoid the consequences of a drunk driving conviction.
To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a skilled legal professional in your area, submit your information online today.
