What Happens during a Colorado DUI Stop?

If you have never been pulled over for suspicion of drunk driving, DUI stops may be a bit of a mystery to you. Given, however, that these stops can be stressful – and can lead to criminal charges, having an idea of what to expect during a DUI stop can help you:

• Stay calm during the stop.
• Protect your rights as you interact with police.

Here’s What You Can Expect during a DUI Stop

A trusted Boulder DUI attorney explains what you can expect to occur during a DUI stop. Contact our Boulder DUI attorney for the best DUI defense.

According to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), this is generally what will happen when you are stopped by a traffic cop for suspicion of drunk driving:

1. You will be asked to perform a roadside sobriety test.
   Helpful TIP: You have the right to refuse this test, and it’s best to do so if you think you will “fail” for any reason. Your refusal won’t result in any automatic penalties.
2. If police have probable cause to suspect that you are drunk, you will be handcuffed, arrested and taken to jail.
   Helpful TIP: Do NOT resist the arrest. It will never work out in your favor to do so.
3. You will be asked to submit a blood, breath or urine sample to test your blood alcohol concentration (or potential drug impairment).
   Important FACT: You will lose your driver’s license for at least one year if you refuse to submit a sample for BAC testing. This driver’s license suspension will occur even if you are not convicted of drunk driving (per Colorado’s Implied Consent Law).
4. You vehicle may be impounded. You will be responsible for covering the impound and towing costs.
5. You will be photographed and fingerprinted upon your DUI arrest.
   Important FACT: You will have a criminal record related to this arrest even if you are not convicted of a DUI. Depending on the outcome of your DUI case, you may be able to get the records sealed at some later point.
6. Upon your arrest, you will be held in custody until you are deemed to be sober or, when aggravating circumstances apply, until bail is posted.

If you are ultimately charged with a DUI, you should also be aware that there will be two cases to defend yourself in:

• The criminal case, which will rule on whether you were guilty of the alleged offense
• The administrative case, which will deal with your driving privileges.

Getting your defense started ASAP will be critical to obtaining the best possible outcomes to DUI cases.

Adams County and Boulder DUI Attorney at Peter Loyd Weber & Associates

Have you or a loved one been charged with a DUI? If so, a trusted Adams County and Boulder DUI attorney at Peter Loyd Weber & Associates is ready to immediately start defending you. Our primary concern is protecting your constitutional rights throughout the criminal process while helping you obtain the best possible resolution to your case.