Driving under the influence (DUI) carries serious penalties in the state of Colorado. Every DUI offender can face harsh consequences, but this is especially true of anyone who is classified as a persistent drunk driver.
Who Can Be Classified As A Persistent Drunk Driver in Colorado?
The law states that a persistent drunk driver is anyone who meets at least one of the following conditions:
- You have two or more alcohol-related convictions on your record.
- Your driver’s license has been revoked for two or more alcohol-related offenses.
- You were caught driving after your license was suspended or revoked as a result of an alcohol-related offense.
- You refused to take a blood, urine, or breath test after being arrested for DUI.
- You had a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.15%.
The term “persistent drunk driver” is somewhat misleading. As you can see, a DUI offender can be classified as a persistent drunk driver even if it is his first offense as long as he meets one of the conditions mentioned above. For example, if someone is driving with a BAC of 0.15%, he can be charged with DUI and classified as a persistent drunk driver even if this is his first brush with the law.
The Consequences of This Classification
Anyone who carries the label of persistent drunk driver will face several consequences. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will immediately take away your driving privileges if you are classified as a persistent drunk driver. Driving privileges will not be reinstated until the DUI offender has completed a level II alcohol and drug education and treatment course. The DMV also requires persistent drunk drivers to use an ignition interlock device for at least two years following reinstatement. DUI offenders in this situation will also need to obtain SR-22 insurance coverage for a minimum of two years in order to keep their driving privileges.
Renting an ignition interlock device and obtaining SR-22 coverage can be expensive, which is why these consequences are so serious. Many DUI offenders may not be able to afford these expenses, so they end up losing their driving privileges indefinitely.
Have you been charged with DUI? If so, contact Reisch Law Firm at once. Our criminal defense attorneys understand that the consequences of a DUI conviction can affect the rest of your life. Let us fight to protect your future. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 303-291-0555 or filling out this online form.
