Colorado DUI checkpoints lead to over 1,300 arrests in one weekend

February 13, 2013 (Press-News.org) Colorado DUI checkpoints lead to over 1,300 arrests in one weekend

Article provided by James L. Finegan, P.C.
Visit us at http://www.fineganduilaw.com

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) reports that over 26,000 people in the state are arrested for driving under the influence, or DUI, every year. These arrests are not just from enforcement officers pulling over obviously impaired drivers or issuing tickets after an accident, but also the result of officers testing drivers at DUI checkpoints.

The state uses these checkpoints throughout the year, often in collaboration with enforcement campaigns. Enforcement campaigns are run throughout the year and specifically target drunk drivers.

Those stopped at these checkpoints may be required to take a field test. State law presumes that anyone driving in Colorado consents to take one of these tests, which could be conducted by using a blood, breath, saliva or urine test. Refusal to submit can be admissible in court.

Recent enforcement campaign leads to large number of arrests

The CDOT just ended its most recent campaign, called "The Heat is On." This campaign combined DUI enforcement techniques, like the use of checkpoints, with a push for increased public awareness through the use of community outreach programs and media relations. This crackdown was designed to be the most intensive of the summer, with over 90 enforcement agencies taking part throughout the state.

One weekend alone during this campaign resulted in over 1,300 DUI arrests. During Halloween of 2011, a similar campaign resulted in almost 500 arrests in a single night.

Ideally, enforcement officers hope drivers will take note of the large numbers of arrests and make plans to travel safely to and from festivities. They recommend calling a cab or friend to provide a ride instead of getting behind the wheel after drinking.

The impact of DUI charge

DUI charges come with both criminal and administrative penalties. A DUI conviction can be pricey, with some estimates stating an arrest can cost over $10,000 in costs, including fines and increased insurance premiums. Administrative penalties can also be issued, which include revocation of a driver's license. A DUI conviction can also result in jail time. In Colorado, a first time offender can receive 5 days to one year of prison time.

In addition to these official penalties, a DUI conviction can make it difficult to get a job. The current job market is already difficult; many job openings receive numerous applications from highly qualified candidates. Employers often run background checks before hiring employees, and a DUI conviction on a potential employee's record will likely appear. As a result, it is important to take these charges seriously before they turn into a conviction.

If you are charged with a DUI, contact an experienced DUI defense attorney to discuss your situation and better ensure your legal rights are protected.