Colorado Attorneys Legal Blog
Government Data Indicates Traffic Fatalities Shot up During the Pandemic
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) early estimates show that 38,680 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2020. The agency attributes the increase to several factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Although Americans drove less in 2020 due to the pandemic, the number of miles driven per person increased. This combined with a decrease in the number of people using mass transit led to a rise in the number of people driving alone, which led to an increase in crashes and fatalities.
Report: Half of Drinkers Risk DUI
Enjoying a pleasant dinner out, a get together at a local bar or club, or a meeting with friends often involves consuming alcohol. Even if you are careful about how much you drink, a recent study reveals that almost half of drinkers underestimate their BAC (blood alcohol concentration), believe they are safe to drive, but are at risk of being charged with DUI.
The FBI Has Colorado on Its Radar for Internet Crimes
Internet crimes are on the rise in Colorado and across the nation. The CBI and FBI are focused on identifying, arresting, and charging any individual engaging in cybercrime. An FBI report reveals that in 2020, the total number of complaints increased to 791,790, almost 350,000 more than the prior year, leading to $4.2 billion in losses – about 2,000 complaints every day. 2020 was the worst year on record for internet crimes, many of which originated in Colorado. FBI agents on the cybercrime task force are hard at work in the state – and ready to arrest and charge any person they believe is committing internet crimes.
What Happens If You Refuse a DUI Test in Colorado?
Field sobriety tests are technically voluntary. You have the right to politely decline an officer’s command or request that you take a preliminary breathalyzer test, or PBT, on the side of the road. Roadside tests cannot be used against you in court, but tabletop test results are admissible. In fact, if you refuse a breath or blood test at the station a jury will typically assume you had something to hide and will not look favorably on your case.
Avoid DUI Penalties: Be Home for the Holidays
Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death in the United States for people under the age of 54. Last year, over 42,000 Americans died in car crashes according to the National Safety Council, an increase of about three thousand deaths over the previous year. We are happy to report that traffic fatalities went down by 2.4% in Colorado last year, and we would like to see this trend continue.
Retail Store Slip and Fall Accident
A slip and fall in a retail store can lead to serious, catastrophic, or fatal injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall while visiting a retail outlet, ensure you are represented by a premises liability attorney who will manage every aspect of the process of seeking compensation. Every case is unique in circumstances and degree of the injuries sustained, and the amount of compensation will vary.
Should You Agree to a Field Sobriety Test?
In Colorado, a police officer who pulls you over for suspected intoxication has the right to request that you submit to certain tests. However, a field sobriety test is also voluntary on your part, and you can refuse to submit to one. Still, doing so can have consequences.
Should you agree to a field sobriety test, any errors in the testing procedure or perceived results could have immediate and long-term consequences. Our DUI team can help you fight the resulting charges and build a credible defense so you can hold on to your driver’s license, avoid points on your license, and maintain a career that depends on an unblemished driving record.
When Is Theft a Felony in Colorado?
Theft is a felony in Colorado when the amount stolen exceeds $2,000. There are multiple felony classes—which class you are charged with depends, among other things, on how much was taken. For example, a Class 6 felony is for thefts of $2,000 to $5,000, while a Class 2 felony is for thefts of over $1,000,000.
What Punishments Could I Get for a Drug Arrest in CO?
If you have been arrested on drug charges in Colorado, the penalties you are facing will depend on the offense, the amount, the type of drug, and other factors. Charges for drug crimes can range from petty offenses, punishable by a fine, to a Level 1 drug felony, punishable by a mandatory minimum prison sentence of eight to 32 years and a fine of up to $1 million.
Possession of four or fewer grams of most controlled substances is now a Level 1 drug misdemeanor instead of a felony in Colorado. Many defendants facing these charges are able to go on probation to avoid jail time or complete a diversion program to have their cases dismissed.
When Does Marijuana Lead to a DUI Conviction in CO?
Although recreational use of marijuana is now legal in Colorado, DUI is still a crime. You face the same basic criminal penalties for driving under the influence of marijuana as you would for driving under the influence of alcohol. There is no strict legal limit for marijuana at which point you are considered too impaired to drive. You can be charged with DUI of marijuana if you are substantially mentally and/or physically incapable of safely operating a motor vehicle. This offense is usually charged as a misdemeanor.