When car accidents in Douglas County result in serious bodily injury, vehicular assault charges can follow. Driving recklessly or under the influence has strict penalties if someone is seriously hurt as a result. Sadly, accidents do happen and sometimes innocent drivers face devastating criminal charges when they didn’t intend to hurt anyone. Consulting a strategic defense attorney is crucial when facing vehicular assault charges in the state of Colorado.
Douglas County Vehicular Assault Law
Douglas County’s vehicular assault law addresses seriously injuring another while exhibiting certain driving behaviors. C.R.S. 18-3-205 defines the specific vehicular assault violations in Colorado. A driver commits this offense in Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, or Parker if they:
- drive recklessly or under the influence of alcohol or drugs,
- AND cause serious bodily injury to another person
As safer-at-home restrictions ease and Colorado’s parks slowly begin to reopen, drivers are hitting the road again. Whether taking prescription medications or having a few drinks at a picnic, choosing to drive afterwards carries enormous risk. If an accident occurs and someone experiences breaks, fractures, or certain burns, law enforcement often tries to hold someone accountable. If that person is you, exercise your right to remain silent and call a skilled traffic lawyer right away.
Consequences of Vehicular Assault in Colorado
Vehicular assault is a felony offense throughout Colorado. When a person drives recklessly and seriously injures another person, a class 5 felony applies. Conviction can lead to:
- up to 3 years in DOC,
- a maximum fine of $100k
However, if someone is driving under the influence and seriously injures another, a class 4 felony can result. Conviction in these scenarios can mean:
- 2 – 6 years in DOC,
- fines of $2k – $500k
Douglas County Criminal Defense
Vehicular assault charges have the potential to negatively impact your life for a long time. Determined representation is a must and can often lead to a better outcome. Perhaps you weren’t driving recklessly, the DUI test wasn’t reliable, or the injuries weren’t serious. Nevertheless, contact our office for an important free consultation. We will carefully analyze your vehicular assault case, as well as suggest next steps in your defense. Our affordable fees and flexible payment plans make skilled representation a reality for those facing allegations throughout Colorado.
So, if you or someone you know is facing a vehicular assault charge, the time to act is now. Contact the experienced criminal lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-265-1950. Together, we can protect your future.
Photo by Matthew T Rader