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How Strict Are Colorado’s DUI Penalties?

On Behalf of | Aug 10, 2016 | Drunk Driving Charges |

There is no sympathy to be found for people accused of drunk driving; it seems as though drivers who are accused of being drunk behind the wheel are guilty until proven innocent.

There is a logical reason for this. Local and state officials such as police chiefs, mayors, state representatives and governors love to go out in front of the public and show that they are tough on crime. Extolling the virtues of strict DUI laws and enforcement is a simple way to do that without having to take any political risks.

After all, who is willing to stand up and say that DUI laws are too tough or that we should go easy on drunk drivers?

Unfortunately, DUI penalties can leave good people facing thousands of dollars in fines, jail time, and a lifetime of collateral damage.

WalletHub recently released a study that takes a look at the severity of DUI penalties throughout the United States. Below, we take a look at where Colorado ranks.

Colorado places well within the top half of strictest states for DUI, coming in at number 18. This number was determined by looking at where Colorado ranks in terms of criminal penalties (21st) as well as prevention (7th).

Strictest States

The 10 strictest states are:

  • Arizona
  • Georgia
  • Alaska
  • Oklahoma
  • Nebraska
  • Kansas
  • Connecticut
  • Utah
  • West Virginia
  • Texas

Lenient States

The 10 least strict states are:

  • South Dakota
  • North Dakota
  • Pennsylvania
  • Ohio
  • Vermont
  • Maryland
  • New Jersey
  • Michigan
  • Idaho
  • Mississippi

Don’t Let The Ranking Fool You

Falling outside of the list of states with the most severe penalties does not mean that being charged with DUI is a walk in the park. A DUI in Colorado can still be costly to you financially, legally, personally, and professionally.

It is in your best interest to have a proven criminal defense attorney working to protect what matter most to you.

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