Colorado State Patrol Warns Repeat DUI Offenders Face Tougher Penalties Under Persistent Drunk Driver Law

Description: Colorado State Patrol highlights the penalties for repeat DUI offenses, including ignition interlock devices, SR-22 insurance and mandatory education...


Published: 5 hours ago
Byline: SECO News

Penalties for Repeat DUI Offenders

Persistent Drunk Driver Designation

(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 17,203 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. “Nationwide, close to one-third (33%) 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 as a Persistent Drunk Driver (PDD) in Colorado:

  1. Multiple DUI convictions (in Colorado or any other U.S. state or territory)
  2. Refusing a DUI chemical test after you’re arrested
  3. 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)
  4. Anyone who is caught driving on a suspended license due to DUI

“While it can be hard to imagine that someone would make such a life-altering choice twice, it happens daily,” explains Col. Packard. “As expected, the penalties for each conviction 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:

  1. 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.
  2. The court will require proof of SR-22 insurance coverage demonstrating financial responsibility, which must be maintained for at least two years.
  3. Completion of treatment and education for alcohol abuse, Level II.
    1. This level involves 24 hours of classes over 12 weeks.
    2. If the PDD is determined to be addicted, they may need to complete level 2 therapy. The number of hours will depend on the case, ranging from 42 to 86 hours.
    3. If the driver refuses a chemical test after arrest, they must complete 86 hours of therapy over 10 months.

Additional consequences come with each DUI, 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 enforcing DUI laws, the Colorado State Patrol is highlighting the consequences an average Colorado driver faces after a DUI arrest as part of its “DUI Lasts Longer Than…” campaign during the holiday season (October 1 through New Year’s Day). Don’t Underestimate Impairment. 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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