What Happens If You Get Arrested Under DUI »

January 7, 2009

5 - add yours »

Have you ever thought what can happen if you get arrested under DUI/DWI charges? DUI is not a joke. It is a very serious and frustrating experience. In my practice as a DUI Lawyer, I have seen many gone through pain and agony of a DUI Charge.  Driving under the influence  or Driving while intoxicated is a severe crime in each and every state with no exceptions.  I have created this list of things that can happen if you get arrested and charged for a DUI /DWI related crime.

Jail Time

On first offense of dui you may be fine up to a $2,000 or 72 hours to 180 days in jail.

Job loss

You may lose your job as a consequences to a major DUI charge especially if your job involves driving / travelling.

Loss of driver’s license

You may lose driver’s license or It can be suspended for anywhere between 90 days to one year.

Insurance coverage complications

You may got problems in getting your insurance coverage. if you find a company which is ready to insure you, you will find the premium very penalizing.

Impounding of vehicle

Some state laws require the DUI arrestee’s vehicle to be impounded. In limited cases, the vehicle may even be forfeited to the state, which is usually sold at a public auto auction with proceeds going to the state. Impoundment is said to be among the most effective punishments to encourage the DUI defendant from committing similar transgressions.

Ignition interlock device

A breath alcohol ignition interlock device (BIID or IID) is a mechanism similar to a breathalyzer which is installed in a vehicle’s dashboard. Before the vehicle can be started, the driver must breathe into the device. If the analyzed result is higher than a programed blood alcohol concentration, commonly .02% or .04%, the vehicle will not start.

Probation

The law is somewhat lenient to first time offenders. Technically, it call for a jail sentence, but first time DUI offenders usually have this sentence suspended and the driver is put on probation. In simple terms, this means that the offender is subject to community supervision. Probation usually lasts one to two years. The offender must obey the judge’s order or the suspension can be revoked. The offender can then face a prison term.

Community service

One option that may be available in the sentencing of a DUI offender is community service. Often, a lawyer can work with the judge to lesson a sentence by agreeing to community service. This is a great way to shorten time in jail and lesson fines.

Alcoholic education,treatment etc.

In most states, a drunk driving conviction (whether DUI, DWI, or a reduced charge, such as a “wet reckless”) will result in the requirement that the offender take an alcohol education program. In many states, even if the court does not require the alcohol education program, the Department of Motor Vehicles will, in order to regain driving privileges.

Restricted interstate or international travel

Best way to avoid these punishments is not to drink and drive. There is also a human side to it

So Be Safe and Keep Safe… Order a Taxi when you have a drink too many. or be ready to pay a great price.. to your lawyer or law or both.

You might also like

Former UK Coach Billy Gillispie Arrested on DUI Charge On Thursday at 2:45 a.m., Former Kentucky basketball coach Billy Gillispie has been  arrested and...

Northern Kentucky Dentist Arrested On Drug & DUI Charges A Northern Kentucky dentist has been arrested this morning facing DUI and drug charges.   Doctor...

Sacramento Cop Arrested for DUI Sacramento Police Officer Chris Hughes has been arrested by CHP, the police officer goes by "Keith,"...

Police Make Arrest in Fatal Crash that Claimed Five Lives The police of Louisiana State have made an arrest following a horrific traffic crash that occurred last...