Are you facing a Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI) or Driving Under the Influence (DUI) charge in Colorado? Understanding the potential outcomes of each charge and how they differ is an important place to start.
If you are trying to find a DUI attorney to represent you, you’ve started in the right place. This article will explain the key differences between DUIs and DWAIs, what you can do to fight them, and how we can help.
What is a DWAI in Colorado?
A DWAI is a charge unique to Colorado. While the nationwide legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08%, Colorado has imposed a stricter range. If you get pulled over and your breath test shows a BAC between .05% and .08%, the state of Colorado still considers you impaired. In these cases, an officer can charge you with a DWAI.
This offense also offers more wiggle room if an officer believes you are driving under the influence of substances other than alcohol. As such, it doesn’t matter where your measurable blood alcohol level lies; it’s possible to get this offense based on your actions alone.
DWAI vs. DUI
If your BAC is over .08%, you may be charged with a DUI.
Colorado treats DWAIs as a misdemeanor charge, meaning that they are less severe than a DUI charge. Those charged with a first-time DWAI in Colorado may face the following penalties:
- A fine of up to $500
- Up to 48 hours of community service
- Up to 180 days in jail
- 8 points on their DMV driving record
For comparison, a first DUI offense can result in up to 1 year in jail, fines of up to $1,000, up to 96 hours of community service, and a license suspension of one year.
However, this does not mean a DWAI doesn’t come without significant consequences. First and foremost, a DWAI charge will be added to your criminal record if you are convicted. In addition, after your first offense, a DWAI charge and a DUI charge come with the same penalties.
Facing DWAI Charges
A skilled Denver DUI defense attorney can defend you against DWAI charges. They know the letter of the law and can tell you exactly what to expect from your case. Best of all, they understand exactly how to defend you in court.
Some common defenses include (but are not limited to):
- Proving that your BAC was below .05%.
- Proving that the officer who pulled you over lacked probable cause.
- Proving the officer assumed you were DWAI because you own a medical marijuana card.
- Proving that your breath or blood test was not properly conducted according to the law.
Need Legal Help?
Do you need a lawyer for DUI or DWAI? You can rely on the COLaw Team for the protection you deserve in the court of law.
We have extensive experience in criminal defense, including DUI and DWAIs, that can save you from these serious charges.
Contact us on our website or at (970) 670-0738 for a free consultation.
