Colorado DUI

Colorado DUI law makes it illegal to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In addition to operating under the influence Colorado DUI law also makes it illegal to operate a motor vehicle while their ability to drive is impaired by alcohol or drugs.

The (2) Colorado 'drunk driving' offenses are referred to as DUI 42-4-1301(1)(a) C.R.S. and DWAI 42-4-1301(1)(b) C.R.S.  In addition Colorado also has another offense that is charged along with 1 of the other offenses.  The additional charge is known as the DUI 'per se' law 42-4-1301(2)(a) C.R.S.  There are two ways in which the prosecution can prove DUI or DWAI;

• A chemical test showing a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or greater
• Evidence of an inability to safely operate a motor vehicle, such as field sobriety tests, video tape, police officer observation, etc...

DUI will bring both administrative penalties (actions the DMV will take against your Colorado drivers license) and criminal penalties such as court imposed fines, community service, and jail time.  The court system punishments can sometimes be reduced or plead down by cooperating with treatment programs etc... but the administrative penalties cannot be changed.

Colorado DUI Penalties:

1st Offense DUI

• Fine:  $300-$1,000
• Driver License Suspension:  1 year
• Jail:  5 days up to 1 year
• Community Service:  48 hours - 96 hours

2nd Offense DUI

• Fine:  $500-$1,500
• Driver License Suspension:  Revoked for 1 year
• Jail:  90 days up to 1 year
• Community Service:  60 hours - 120 hours

1st Offense DWAI

• Fine:  $100-$500
• Driver License Suspension:  8 points on drivers license
• Jail:  2 days up to 180 days
• Community Service:  24 hours - 48 hours

2nd Offense DWAI

• Fine:  $300-$1,000
• Driver License Suspension:  Revoked for 1 year
• Jail:  45 days up to 1 year
• Community Service:  48 hours - 96 hours

Colorado DUI News Headlines