How to Deal With a DUI Stop
When you are involved in a Colorado DUI stop, the first thing to remember is to be courteous and cooperative to the officer who pulls you over. He or she has the power to pursue an investigation into whether you were driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
That being said, you are not required to respond to any question that may incriminate you. In other words, you have the right to remain silent. Oftentimes, the first thing a police officer will ask you after making a Denver DUI stop is, "how many drinks have you had tonight?" Officers will ask questions like this in order to gain any evidence they can against you for the DUI case. You do not have to help them build their case.
Secondly, you are not required by any Colorado DUI laws to perform a roadside sobriety test. This includes any number-counting or alphabet-reciting exercise, any test where you must walk a straight line or stand on one foot, or any eye examination. This also includes a PBT, or preliminary breath test. Knowing this will keep you from incriminating yourself and helping the officer build a case against you.
You should be aware that if you refuse a mandatory chemical test, which is generally a blood or breath test performed at a police station, you could automatically lose your license and still be charged with drunk driving based on other evidence gathered by the police officer.
Colorado DUI laws and drunk driving laws in Denver
Colorado law mandates the legal drinking limit for operating a motor vehicle at .08 percent. If you are found to be over the legal limit through a blood or breath test, you will most likely be brought up on charges for Driving Under the Influence.
If are facing DUI charges in Denver, you have seven days to schedule a hearing on your behalf through the DMV or you will automatically have your license suspended. If convicted for a DUI in a criminal court, you may face up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine, along with alcohol education and therapy sessions.
When you are charged with drunk driving it is always the best idea to consult with a DUI lawyer in Denver about your upcoming case. The Orr Law Firm is an experienced and dedicated law firm dealing specifically with DUI and criminal traffic cases.
Contact Us
To learn more about Rhidian Orr and his staff of trained professionals, visit the Our Staff page or contact The Orr Law Firm for a no obligation, free consultation to discuss your case and the facts surrounding it.
