DUI /DWI charges

DUI/DWI Charges in Colombia: What You Need to Know

Being charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Colombia is a serious offense that can result in harsh penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment. If you find yourself facing these charges, it’s critical to understand your rights and options to build a strong defense.

What is DUI/DWI in Colombia?

Under Colombian law, it is illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Law enforcement regularly conducts alcohol breathalyzer tests (prueba de alcoholemia) to detect intoxicated drivers. The severity of the charges depends on the level of alcohol detected in your blood (BAC - Blood Alcohol Content) or evidence of drug use.

Legal Alcohol Limits in Colombia

Private Vehicles: Maximum BAC of 0.04% (40 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood).
Public Service Vehicles or Professional Drivers: Zero tolerance for any detectable alcohol in the blood.

Levels of Intoxication and Penalties

Level 1 Intoxication: BAC between 0.04% and 0.10%
- Fines, license suspension, and mandatory safety courses.
Level 2 Intoxication: BAC between 0.10% and 0.20%
- Increased fines, longer license suspension, and potential vehicle impoundment.
Level 3 Intoxication: BAC above 0.20%
- Severe fines, prolonged license suspension, vehicle impoundment, and possible imprisonment.

Penalties for DUI/DWI in Colombia

The consequences of a DUI/DWI conviction can vary depending on the severity of the offense, but typical penalties include:

Fines:
- Fines range from several hundred to thousands of dollars, depending on the intoxication level.
License Suspension:
- Suspension periods range from 6 months to 10 years, depending on the BAC level and whether it’s a repeat offense.
Mandatory Programs:
- Offenders may be required to complete alcohol education courses or participate in community service.
Imprisonment:
- For high BAC levels, repeat offenses, or accidents causing injury or death, prison sentences may apply.
Vehicle Impoundment:
- Authorities may confiscate your vehicle for a specified period.
Insurance Implications:
- DUI/DWI convictions can result in increased insurance premiums or denial of future coverage.

What to Do If You’re Charged with DUI/DWI in Colombia

If you’ve been accused of driving under the influence, follow these steps to protect your rights and strengthen your defense:

1. Stay Calm and Cooperate

Comply with police instructions during the stop.
Refusal to take a breathalyzer test can result in automatic penalties, including fines and license suspension.

2. Document the Incident

Take note of any details about the traffic stop or arrest, including the location, time, and officer interactions.
If possible, record evidence (e.g., photos, videos) that may help in your defense.

3. Request Legal Assistance Immediately

Contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer who understands Colombian DUI/DWI laws.
Your lawyer will review the evidence, ensure proper procedures were followed, and advise on the best defense strategy.

4. Avoid Self-Incrimination

Do not admit guilt or provide statements without your lawyer present, as anything you say can be used against you.

How We Can Help

At LawyerColombia.co, our legal team specializes in defending DUI/DWI charges. We provide tailored legal strategies to protect your rights and minimize the impact of these charges on your life.

Our Services Include:

Case Analysis:
- Reviewing the circumstances of your arrest, including the accuracy of breathalyzer tests and whether proper procedures were followed.
Defense Strategy Development:
- Challenging evidence, questioning police conduct, or highlighting procedural errors that may invalidate charges.
Negotiation with Prosecutors:
- Seeking reduced penalties, fines, or alternative resolutions such as alcohol education programs.
Representation in Court:
- Advocating for you during hearings and trials, presenting evidence to support your case and reduce penalties.
License Reinstatement Assistance:
- Helping you regain your driving privileges as quickly as possible after suspension.

Defenses Against DUI/DWI Charges

Depending on the specifics of your case, our attorneys may use the following defense strategies:

Improper Breathalyzer Testing:
- Challenging the accuracy or calibration of the device used to measure your BAC.
Violation of Rights:
- Highlighting instances where your legal rights were violated during the stop, arrest, or testing process.
No Probable Cause:
- Arguing that the police had no valid reason to stop your vehicle in the first place.
Medical Conditions or Medications:
- Demonstrating that certain health conditions or medications may have caused a false positive BAC result.
Procedural Errors:
- Identifying mistakes made by law enforcement that could weaken the prosecution’s case.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I refuse to take a breathalyzer test in Colombia?

Refusing a breathalyzer test can result in automatic penalties, including fines, license suspension, and vehicle impoundment.

2. What happens if I’m a foreigner charged with DUI/DWI in Colombia?

Foreign nationals face the same legal process as Colombians. Additionally, you may face complications with your visa or residency status. Our team can help navigate these issues.

3. Can DUI/DWI charges affect my insurance?

Yes. A conviction can lead to increased premiums, loss of coverage, or denial of future claims.

Why Choose Us?

At LawyerColombia.co, we have a proven track record of successfully defending DUI/DWI cases in Colombia. Here’s why clients trust us:

Experienced DUI Lawyers: Deep knowledge of Colombian traffic and criminal laws.
Tailored Defense Strategies: Each case is unique, and we create customized defenses based on the specifics of your situation.
Bilingual Support: Professional legal assistance in both English and Spanish.
Proven Results: Our team has helped clients avoid harsh penalties, reduce charges, and regain their licenses.

Contact Us Today

If you’ve been charged with DUI/DWI in Colombia, it’s essential to act quickly. Our skilled defense attorneys at LawyerColombia.co are ready to protect your rights and provide the legal support you need.