Have you ever heard someone say that a good way to sober up is by drinking coffee? Maybe you are out with friends when it comes time for everyone to go their separate ways and drive home. One of your friends may suggest buying a cup of coffee first because it can lower your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and reduce the odds that you will get a DWI charge on the way home.
But does this actually work? Is coffee all you need to defend yourself against DWI charges?
It is a common myth
If you thought this sounded too simple to be true, you are right. Coffee does not actually reduce your BAC at all. The idea that coffee can get you out of a DWI is a common myth, but it does not work in reality.
Part of the issue is likely that coffee can wake you up since it has a high caffeine content. Someone who is feeling sluggish and fatigued after a night of heavy drinking may mistake feeling awake and alert for being sober. But if they were pulled over by the police and given a breath test, their BAC would not be any lower after a cup of coffee than it was before.
The only real way to reduce your BAC is to wait. It will go down over time, but you cannot speed up this process.
Your defense options
Myths like this sometimes lead to DWI arrests, and the consequences can be serious. If you find yourself facing DWI charges in Colorado, you could be looking at substantial fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, increased insurance rates and even jail time depending on the circumstances.
You have legal options, and the outcome of your case may depend on having knowledgeable representation. Don’t let a common myth about coffee turn into a life-changing conviction. Understand your rights and explore all available defenses with a qualified legal professional.