The alcohol limit for driving refers to the level of blood alcohol content (BAC) at which a driver is legally considered to be driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol. However, the alcohol limit is a more complex topic than you might imagine.
If you or someone you know is facing charges related to driving under the influence, consult with an experienced Colorado DUI defense attorney from McAdams Law Office today.
The legal alcohol limit for most drivers in Colorado is a BAC of 0.08%. This means that if a driver’s BAC exceeds this limit, they are considered legally impaired and can be charged with a DUI. It is important to note that this limit applies to drivers who are 21 years of age or older. Drivers under the age of 21 and commercial vehicle operators are held to stricter BAC limits.
In Colorado, a driver can be charged with driving while ability impaired (DWAI) if their BAC is between 0.05% and 0.079%. While the penalties for DWAI are generally less severe than those for DUI, it is still a serious offense. A DWAI conviction can result in fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education classes, and even jail time.
For commercial vehicle operators in Colorado, the BAC limit is set at 0.04%. This lower limit is in place due to the increased responsibility that comes with operating a commercial vehicle. A commercial driver who exceeds this limit can face serious consequences, including loss of their commercial driver’s license and potential job loss.
Colorado has a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving. Any detectable amount of alcohol in the system of a driver who is under the age of 21 can result in a DUI charge. This means that even a BAC below the legal limit of 0.08% can lead to serious legal consequences for underage drivers.
Driving with a BAC over the legal limit in Colorado can lead to severe penalties. These penalties can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case, such as prior DUI convictions and any injuries or fatalities caused by the impaired driving. Some possible penalties for driving with a BAC over the limit include:
If you or someone you know is facing DUI or DWAI charges in Colorado, never wait to seek the guidance of a skilled attorney. Understanding the complexities of the state’s DUI laws can be challenging, but an experienced lawyer can provide defense representation and protect your rights.
Contact McAdams Law Office today at 970-353-0000 for a consultation. Our dedicated DUI defense attorneys are ready to provide the professional advice you need in your DUI case.
William T. McAdams, known as Bill, is a highly experienced criminal defense attorney and former prosecutor. Since establishing McAdams Law Office in 2006, he has represented clients in cases including DUI/DWI, domestic violence, and theft, handling over 100 jury trials. Bill serves clients predominantly in Weld and Larimer counties, including Greeley, Evans, Windsor, Loveland, and Fort Collins. An active community volunteer and member of multiple legal associations, he is dedicated to protecting his clients’ rights.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partiner, William McAdams who has more than 25 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.