What Counts As Drunk Driving?
Depending on your state’s drunk driving laws, there may be numerous penalties for driving under the influence. These can vary from fines and revocation of your license to jail time. A driver with a high BAC (blood alcohol content) will likely face much more serious penalties than a driver with a low BAC.
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The legal limit for driving in the United States is 0.08%. While that may seem like a lot of alcohol, a small amount can be enough to impair your vision, decrease your reaction time, and hamper your judgment. So, it’s not surprising that one person dies every 45 minutes from an alcohol-related crash.
A first-time drunk driver may be fined up to $10,000, which is not the only potential punishment. A first-time DUI may also result in an ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle. This device prevents your car from starting if your BAC is below a specified level.
A first-time DUI may also result in a probationary sentence. In Indiana, for example, a first-time DUI may result in a minimum sentence of nine months of probation. In addition, a first-time offender may also be required to attend an alcohol treatment program. In Texas, a first-time DUI may result in a minimum sentence of six months of license revocation. In addition, a first-time DUI may also result in retaking a driving test.
The law also requires drivers to take a field sobriety test. This can be a real pain in the a$$. If a driver refuses to take a test, he or she may be charged with violating the state’s Zero Tolerance Law.
The law has a lot of other penalties as well. If you have been involved in a drunk driving accident, you may be able to recover damages in the form of wages lost, healthcare costs, and pain and anguish. In addition, you may be able to sue the bar or restaurant if they served a drunk driver.
A drunk driving crash is different from other car accidents. Drivers involved in an alcohol-related collision are more likely to be speedier, more reckless, and to cause more serious accidents. In addition, drunk drivers often leave the scene of an accident, putting others at risk.
The law also requires drivers to wear seat belts. If you are arrested for DUI, you may be required to take a sobriety test, undergo a field sobriety test, and enter a federally mandated program. Depending on the severity of the offense, the penalties for driving while intoxicated may include jail time and costly fines.
Although the law may be on your side, it’s not worth the risk. There are many other ways to avoid getting pulled over, such as requesting a ride home from a sober friend. Also, don’t host parties or buy alcohol. In addition, use public transportation or a ridesharing service.
If you are pulled over for driving while intoxicated, make sure you wear your seat belt and call for a ride.