Are you facing DUI (driving under the influence) charges that happened while you were on vacation in Colorado? If so, you will typically be penalized under the same laws and statutes as Colorado residents. A DUI charge can profoundly impact your driving privileges in your home state and Colorado.
How an Out-of-Town DUI Arrest Impacts Your Driver’s License
If you were charged with a DUI while on vacation in Colorado, there are several essential factors you need to take into account. In Colorado, a revocation is a consequence of losing your license over a DUI. The DMV administers your driving privileges, and you can request a hearing before your revocation start date. You also have the option to have legal counsel represent you in court if you can’t be present.
Understanding Non-Resident Compacts and the National Driver Register
According to the National Center for Interstate Compacts, the United States utilizes information known as a driver’s license compact to share data about traffic violations, license suspensions, and other traffic-related matters regarding non-residents. After the data is input into the state’s system, it is sent to the non-resident’s home state. Colorado has maintained a non-resident compact since 1965. You can review each state’s non-resident compact and year of joinder at the National Center for Interstate Compacts website.
Colorado will share your DUI information with your home state via the National Driver Register. Following a DUI arrest, you have one week from the date of the notice to request a DMV hearing, or the DMV will revoke your driving privileges. Previous DUI convictions and whether you submitted to a BAC (blood alcohol content) test will determine your revocation length. If you refuse the BAC test, the DMV will automatically revoke your license.
Because states have different laws regarding breathalyzer refusals, you should carefully review your home state’s rules and regulations. A criminal defense attorney can help you through this process.
What Happens After a DUI Conviction
In Colorado, following a first-time DUI conviction, there are several possible consequences:
- Nine-month license revocation: The DMV can revoke your license for nine months; additional fees may apply.
- Community service: Colorado often permits community service from your home state.
- DUI school: You may be required to attend DUI classes.
- Reinstatement process: Colorado must first provide you with a letter of clearance to reinstate your license. Your home state does not permit early reinstatement of your driver’s license.
- Insurance rates: Depending on the severity of the situation and whether or not this is your first offense, you may face rising insurance premiums or even a cancellation of your policy.
- Arrest warrant: An arrest warrant will likely be issued if you ignore your DUI case.
Whatever you might be facing, it’s crucial to have the proper legal representation.
We Help Visitors Fight for Their Rights
It can be challenging to handle your DUI case alone. A sound option is to hire a qualified Colorado attorney. Churchill DUI Defense has resolved thousands of DUI cases. Rest assured, we can help you, too. Contact us at 303-832-9000 or request a free consultation today.