(COLORADO)—Driving under the influence of alcohol, marijuana or other impairing substances is a serious crime in Colorado and comes with serious consequences if convicted.
“Last year, Colorado Crime Statistics show 16,216 DUI cases were filed in Colorado despite everyday options of rideshares, public transportation, or having a designated sober driver,” stated Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Nationally, close to one-third of all drivers arrested for DUI have had at least one previous conviction.
Suppose the penalties and fines of a first DUI don’t change future behaviors. In that case, Colorado has created a separate designation for anyone having committed a DUI for a second or greater time: Persistent Drunk Driver (PDD).
There are four ways for a person to get labeled a Persistent Drunk Driver (PDD) in Colorado:
- Multiple DUI convictions (in Colorado or any other US State or territory)
- Refusing a DUI chemical test after you’re arrested
- Severe intoxicated driving, anyone with a blood alcohol content of 0.15% or higher within two hours of driving (the legal limit for blood alcohol content is 0.08% in Colorado)
- Anyone who is caught driving on a suspended license due to DUI
“It's hard to imagine that someone would make such an irresponsible choice twice, but it happens daily,” explains Col. Packard. “As expected, the penalties increase. We want the seriousness of these drivers' threat to others to become real for them and those who love them.”
Anyone labeled a PDD will have the following requirements:
- Ignition Interlock Device—This must be installed (approximately $100) and maintained (between $50 - $75 a month) for at least two years before their license is fully reinstated.
- The court will require proof of SR-22 insurance coverage demonstrating financial responsibility, which must be maintained for at least two years.
- Completion of treatment and education for alcohol abuse, Level II.
- This level involves 24 hours of classes over 12 weeks.
- This level involves therapy. The number of hours will depend on the case, ranging from 42 to 86 hours.
- If the driver refuses a chemical test after arrest, they must complete 86 hours over 10 months.
Additional consequences come with all DUIs, including creating or impacting your criminal record, increases in auto insurance, employment issues, and difficulties traveling abroad. The best choices come before the first drink or use of a drug. Make a plan for a sober ride or stay over at the party until you are completely sober.
In addition to a no-tolerance approach to enforcement with impaired drivers, the Colorado State Patrol is highlighting the consequences an average Colorado driver experiences after being arrested for DUI as part of their “Don’t Underestimate Impairment” campaign during the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer (Memorial Day through Labor Day). Making a good decision “in the moment” while already intoxicated is unlikely. Don’t underestimate the consequences of this choice, and plan ahead for a sober ride.
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ABOUT THE COLORADO STATE PATROL
Since our origin in 1935, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) has focused on preserving human life and protecting property within our communities. Our 1,100 members embody the core values of Honor, Duty, and Respect in their daily jobs. In addition to our expertise in motor vehicle safety on the state’s roadways, the CSP is responsible for the protection of the Governor and other dignitaries, commercial motor vehicle enforcement, hazardous materials, homeland security, communications, investigative services, criminal interdiction, community education, aviation operations, and more. For additional information, visit us online at Colorado State Patrol or follow us on X, Instagram, YouTube, or Facebook.