What Are The Penalties Of Driving With Ability Impaired (DWAI) In Colorado?

 

A motorist can be convicted of Driving With Ability Impaired if he or she operates a vehicle despite using drugs and/or alcohol. Colorado DWAI penalties range from fines and community service to lengthy jail sentences. These punishments vary depending on the severity of the crime and any prior convictions. This determination is partially based on the offender's behavior and the results of a blood test.

Prison Sentences

If a Colorado driver is found guilty of DWAI, the person will probably spend at least 48 hours in jail. The maximum term of imprisonment is six months. If an individual's blood-alcohol content reaches or exceeds 0.2, prison time is required. After leaving jail, the offender may face a period of probation.

Significant Fines

When people are convicted of this crime in the Centennial State, they typically have to pay substantial fines. These penalties start at $100, and the top fine is $500. The state justice system also expects offenders to pay multiple fees and send money to various funds that are associated with dangerous driving.

Other Penalties

Courts often require convicts to undergo drug tests, attend victim impact panels and perform community service for as many as 48 hours. These tasks can add to the monetary cost of a conviction, especially if the time commitments reduce a person's income. Additionally, the justice system frequently suspends the driver's licenses of DWAI offenders. The suspension usually remains in effect for 12 months.

Repeat Offenses

Motorists usually incur stronger penalties when they have committed the same or similar crimes in the past. Related violations include driving under the influence and vehicular assault or homicide. To prevent repeat offenses, courts tend to penalize convicts with a history of intoxicated driving by demanding larger fines, longer prison sentences and more hours of community service.

Colorado DWAI penalties strongly discourage impaired driving. In addition to inflicting significant monetary losses, they often prevent convicts from working and traveling by car. Higher blood-alcohol levels and prior offenses result in harsher punishments. At the same time, it is vital for motorists to remember that the most severe penalties come from road accidents that are caused by intoxication.

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