Drunk driving is one of the most common criminal offenses in the United States. While there have been attempts at curbing this behavior through awareness campaigns and technology such as ignition locks, it remains a constant problem that regularly sees everyday people in court. If you have been convicted of a drunk driving charge then it’s recommended you visit a DUI law firm and apply for a criminal defense lawyer. Below are basic facts and statistics about drunk driving in the state of Colorado, as well as advice on how to contact a drunk driving attorney and get the help you need.
Drunk Driving In Colorado
The legal BAC (blood alcohol content) limit for drivers over the age of 21 is 0.08%, while those under 21 years old must meet 0.02% to be charged for drunk driving. Colorado is one of the few states that doesn’t have a felony DUI standard, which means that there is no general amount of DUIs that will guarantee jail time. However, a drunk driving conviction will always result in a form of punishment, be it a suspended license or community service.
DUI Conviction
There were an estimated 161 fatal alcohol-related crashes in 2011, down by 45% a few years prior. Nonetheless, convictions for drunk driving remain significant in order to dissuade future incidents and save lives down the road. A first DUI offense in the state of Colorado will result in a license suspension for at least one year, while jail time could last anywhere from five days to one year depending on the circumstances. A mandatory fine can range from $200 to $500 if convicted of a DWAI (driving while ability impaired), while a DUI fine can reach up to $5000.
Contacting A DUI Law Firm
If you are convicted of a DUI offense then you need to contact a drunk driving lawyer for further assistance. Some attorneys offer free consultations, over the phone or in person, that can explain their services before and after the court date. This includes, but is not limited to, organizing court evidence, speaking with officials on your behalf and helping you attain reasonable employment in the future. Call your local Colorado DUI lawyer and begin the first step toward getting your life back on the right track.