The national trend for DUI is inching upward across all 50 states. A recent study by BackgroundChecks.org names Colorado the 21st worst offender for DUI issues. The study pulled data from a variety of sources, such as the Centers for Disease Control, the Department of Transportation, local state data, and M.A.D.D., which routinely collects state data. States were ranked by the number of DUI fatalities, the number of DUI arrests per capita, and how much people reported to have drunk before driving, among other factors.
In 2015, more than 10,000 people were killed across the country in a drunk driving accident, and over 200,000 were injured. Colorado had 151 fatalities, and a rate of .28% of all traffic deaths were due to impaired driving. Although Colorado ranked in the top 25 worst states, the study showed the numbers for DUI traffic deaths was 5.6% down from the previous year. Overall, Colorado had 25,562 DUI arrests in 2015.
The top 5 worst offending states included Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, and South Carolina in that order. These states had a high rate of DUI fatalities for their respective populations, as well as a high DUI death rate per 100,000 people. They also had higher rates of DUI-related traffic deaths.
Nationally, the 10% of licensed drivers who are under 21 are responsible for 17% of DUI traffic crashes and fatalities. A DUI in Colorado is a serious offense that can stand in the way of your entire future.10
Research has found that the effects of texting while driving are comparable to those of driving under the influence of alcohol and/ or drugs, yet the consequences for a Colorado DUI are much stiffer than if you were caught texting behind the wheel. Don’t hesitate to seek legal counsel if you are arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
If you face DUI charges in Golden, Colorado, you need strong legal representation. Contact attorney Miller Leonard, P.C. to fight your DUI charges and protect your interests. With over 17 years of experience practicing criminal law in Golden, he is a former State Prosecuting Attorney, former State Public Defender, and Special Assistant United States Attorney who can help you build a strong defense. Call (720) 613-8783 for a free legal consultation, or book an appointment online to discuss your case.