How To Hold On To Your Driving Privileges
Dui, Dwi Laws: --Know These 10
Do's and Don'ts To Keep Out of Trouble and Keep Your Driving PrivilegesBy Len Smythe
Driving under the influence is a serious offense. Don't do it. That's the best advice anyone can give you. If you are pulled over by a police officer for suspicion of Dui Dwi, you will also be required to take a breathalyzer test, and if you refuse, you will lose your license for 90 days to one year, depending upon which state you live in. The legal limit is .08% for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for anyone driving a motor vehicle in all 50 states.
Dui Defined
It is a crime in all 50 states to drive under the effects of alcohol or drugs. The offense can be labeled driving under the influence, DUI, or driving while intoxicated, DWI. In other words DUI is illegal when operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol level, BAC, above .08%.
Contact A Dui Dwi Attorney
What you must do first is contact a lawyer. How do you evaluate the right lawyer for your case? Make sure the firm has handled Dui Dwi cases. As with most legal matters this is a specialty, and the law firm that has never handled this kind of case is of no use to you. Ask about their fees. Know what you're in for. Consider whether you have a good feeling about the firm.
A Dui conviction can be a huge financial burden. Many have reported that their lives are upended. Further if you've had any kind of prior alcohol or drug offense, the police can search your vehicle without your permission. In many states your vehicle will immediately be towed and you will be placed under arrest. You need the best deal you can get. One other point. If convicted of drunk driving, in most states your automobile insurance rates will increase for at least three years.
Only the right lawyer will give you appropriate legal advice. This can make the difference between going to jail or not, at all. Be aware that penalties can be suspension of your of your driver's license and or a year in jail. Remember to make sure your lawyer has handled similar cases. It would be unwise to consult an attorney who does not specialize in Dui, Dwi cases.
Here are 10 basic Do's and Don'ts if you are pulled over by a police officer for suspicion of DUI DWI.
1. Ask to contact a lawyer immediately.
2. Show your license, registration and insurance documents, when requested.
3. Behave courteously. Do not antagonize the officer.
4. Ask for an independent blood and urine tests from a hospital.
Don't.
5. Don't agree to taking any test, breath analyzer, urine, blood or whatever, without first speaking with an attorney.
6. Don't agree to take an eye exam..
7. Don't agree to be videotaped.
8. Don't agree to taking any coordination tests.
9. You have a right to remain silent. Don't admit to anything. Consult with an attorney.
10. Don't be rude.
One further fact. If you have had a prior DUI/DWI arrest you know this stands out like a red letter sign on your chest. In some states you can clear a former DUI arrest on your record and or minimize the effects the record has already had on your personal life. It is important that you consult an attorney. Ask what the lawyer can do for you to help put your life back on track.
With a DUI conviction you can receive criminal penalties, including fines, and time in jail .You can be arrested and convicted for DUI without specific proof of drunk driving. With even an .06% BAC level, you can be found guilty of DUI. An arresting uniformed police officer can testify that you swerved in and out of your lane, or exhibited slurred speech.
Know Some Facts Regarding Dui Checkpoints
Sobriety checkpoints, or DUI roadblocks, are set-up to catch drivers who are under the influence of alcohol. Keep these facts in mind: If the officer asks to search your car, you may refuse. Remember our Do's and Don'ts rules. Be polite and respectful. If the officer orders you out of your car, lock your door behind you.
You may also refuse if asked to perform a sobriety test. This is the test where you walk in a straight line, or touch your nose with one finger, or recite the alphabet. If asked to take a test to determine your blood alcohol content level,. you may refuse. But the consequences for refusing in almost every state are almost as severe as a Dui charge.