Under Colorado statutes, UDD stands for underage drunk driving and is a
very serious—and very specific—criminal charge. Some consideration
is given to young offenders in instances of intoxicated driving, but there
is a very shallow threshold before a UDD charge become a more-serious
DUI charge, even if the accused is under the drinking age (21). This all
depends on the blood alcohol content (BAC) detected by the chemical test.
For an underage driver to be charged with UDD, their BAC must register
between .02 and .049%. When this happens, a UDD offender becomes vulnerable
to a number of penalties. Like DUI charges, repeat UDDs will result in
more severe charges:
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First offense: three month license suspension, up to $100 in fines
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Second offense: six month license suspension, up to $300 in fines
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Third offense: one year license suspension, up to $300 in fines
Community service is also a common part of these penalties. When a chemical
test yields a BAC of .05% or more, the driver, no matter what their age,
is subject to standard DUI penalties. It should also be noted that underage
drivers are also subject to Colorado's implied consent law and will
incur further license suspension if they refuse to submit to a chemical
test. Other factors, like injury, recklessness, or damages could alter
a UDD charge, as well.
"Points" & Losing Your License
Many young people understand that they are under additional scrutiny as
inexperienced drivers and fear losing their license. Under Colorado's
point system, this becomes a distinct reality in the event of UDD charges.
It only takes a six to nine points for young drivers to lose their license
for 12 months and every UDD charge results in four "points."
That is why it is critical for young people to seek out their legal options
if they are charged with UDD. Just like
DUIs, these charges can be vulnerable to certain defenses, reduced, and even
dismissed. Call the experienced legal team at
The Samuelson Law Firm and schedule a
free consultation with a proven, experienced Colorado DUI attorney now.