Driving while ability impaired, or DWAI, is a lesser charge for driving while drunk or high. Unlike DUI, where the law is triggered by a BAC that is over .08, DWAI in Greeley Colorado is for a BAC of between .05 or .08. A DWAI in Greeley Colorado is still a crime; however, you could still face jail time, fines or a license suspension if you are found guilty.
There are different sentences for a first offense DWAI as compared to a DUI. A first offense for a DWAI in Greeley Colorado can involve a sentence of up to 180 days in jail and a $500 fine. In contrast, a first offense for a DUI would carry a penalty of up to 1 year in jail, $1000 fine and a 9-month license suspension. What must be kept in mind, however, is that later offenses for both a DUI and a DWAI could carry the same maximum penalties, meaning longer jail sentences, higher fines, longer license suspensions and the possibility of having to install an interlock device in your vehicle. Additionally, a DWAI would count as a prior offense in the event of a later DUI conviction, meaning stricter sentencing compared to a first offense.
DWAI is a criminal charge, a misdemeanor. This means that you will have a criminal record if you are convicted of it, same as if you are convicted of a DUI. Additionally, there are other costs you will have to face outside of your criminal penalty, such as points on your license, increased premiums for your auto insurance, along with other problems that can come from having a criminal record, such as issues when a background check is done on you.