Many people have questions about how police officers can determine if someone is under the influence of marijuana. In Colorado, there are numerous ways that a police officer can determine whether a driver has more than 5 nanograms of active tetrahydrocannabinol -- the active ingredient in marijuana -- in their system.

First, it's important to realize that law enforcement officers arrest people for driving under the influence based upon a person's observed impairment. Many of the law enforcement officers in Colorado are trained Drug Recognition Experts or have had training in Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement.

If you refuse to take a blood test to determine your level of THC, your driving privileges will be revoked. You will also be labeled a high-risk driver. This means that you will be required to have a mandatory ignition interlock and level two alcohol therapy and education classes. These penalties are for two years and are administrative. This means that even if you are not convicted of driving while impaired by drugs, you will still have these penalties to deal with.

The penalties for driving while under the influence of alcohol and driving while impaired by marijuana are the same. If you are under the influence of both substances, your risk of being involved in a crash are higher.

At [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1"], we understand the seriousness of any DUI charge. We work diligently to protect the rights of our clients. If there is evidence that your rights were violated during your car stop and subsequent arrest, we will present the evidence at court. That evidence could work in a client's favor, resulting in a dismissal of charges. However, each case is different and the advice and guidance of an experienced attorney can help you determine your legal options.

You can learn more about drunk driving charges and driving while impaired by drugs by visiting our webpages dedicated to the subjects.