DUI Driver’s License Suspensions and SR-22

If you are stopped by police in Colorado and administered a blood or breathalyzer test, you will be found driving while ability impaired (DWAI) if your blood alcohol level shows more than 0.05, but less than 0.08. You will be found driving under the influence (DUI) if your blood alcohol level is at least 0.08. Additionally, you may be classified as a "persistent drunk driver" if your blood alcohol is 0.17 or greater, which could result in stiffer penalties. If you are arrested for a DWAI or DUI offense, you need the assistance of skilled legal counsel right away to protect your rights. It is strongly recommended that you contact effective counsel, such as a Boulder DUI defense attorney at the Lancaster Law Office without delay.

Administrative Penalties in Boulder

If arrested and convicted of a DWAI or DUI offense, Colorado has automatic driver's license suspension laws in place. The courts may impose criminal penalties for these offenses, while the Colorado Department of Revenue imposes administrative penalties, such as suspension of your driver's license and an addition of points to your driving record. If convicted, the following may be assigned by the Colorado Department of Revenue:

• First BAC test of 0.08 - Driver's license suspension of nine months
• Second BAC test of 0.08 - Driver's license suspension of one year
• Third or subsequent BAC test of 0.08 - Driver's license suspension of two years
• DWAI conviction - No automatic driver's license suspension, but eight points may be added to your driving record
• First DUI conviction - Driver's license suspension of nine months and twelve points added to your driving record
• Second DUI or DWAI conviction - Driver's license suspension of twelve months and eight points added for DWAI; twelve points added for DUI
• Third DUI or DWAI conviction - Driver's license suspension of twenty-four months and eight points added for DWAI; twelve points added for DUI

What is an SR-22?

In addition to the above, if you are convicted of a DUI in Colorado and your driver's license is suspended, you will need to file an SR-22 before you are able to get your license reinstated. An SR-22 is a rider added onto your liability insurance policy which states that you have agreed to keep your insurance coverage active for a certain period of time. If you fail to keep the SR-22 current, the insurance company will notify the Colorado DMV and your license may be suspended for that reason alone.

Facing a DUI charge is not something you want to do alone. It can be a harrowing experience and your chances of getting reduced penalties are much greater with the help of a knowledgeable lawyer from the Lancaster Law Office by your side.