The state of Colorado would like to let you know just how expensive being convicted of drunk driving has become.
As the North Denver Tribune reports, several state agencies have partnered for a new awareness campaign illustrating just how expensive a DUI offenses can become for the accused. The conclusions are daunting: even a first-time conviction can cost a driver $13,530. That's more than 30% higher than the state's last calculation eight years ago.
The biggest contributing factor to this increase, officials say, is Colorado's Persistent Drunk Driver (PDD) designation. This can be charged to anyone found driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .15 or higher and results in additional (and expensive) penalties. The average BAC of the intoxicated driver in Colorado in 2016 was .164, more than twice the legal limit.
PDD Penalties
Those convicted of Persistent Drunk Driving are exposed to additional penalties compared to standard drunk driving suspects. A PPD conviction comes with an IID (Ignition Interlock Device) requirement and a nine-month course of weekly alcohol and drug education.
These penalties alone account for a 55% increase in cost for the convicted compared to a standard DUI charge. Despite its "Persistent" label, PPD can also be charged to any driver with a particularly high BAC—including first-time offenders.
You can take a closer look at the expenses associated with a Colorado DUI conviction at www.noduicolorado.org
If you or a loved one has been arrested for DUI, it is advised you seek legal counsel immediately. At Orr Law Firm, our knowledgeable and distinguished Denver DUI defense attorneys have consistently secured favorable results in these matters and know what it takes to challenge the state's case against our clients.
Ready to learn more about how we can help? Contact us today to request a free case evaluation.