Driving Under the Influence – A Serious Legal Matter
Operating an automobile safely is tough enough under optimal conditions. Now add in the mind altering effects of alcohol, and driving becomes nearly impossible. Driving while intoxicated is one of the most dangerous and deadly crimes committed throughout the United States today. A Seattle DUI involves driving under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs, even under the influence of a prescription drug.
Driving while intoxicated occurs when a driver is mentally impaired; therefore their motor skills are weakened. Reflexes are diminished to the point where your reaction time is no longer effective to make smart, basic decisions in a short period of time. Knowing this, it is easy to see why driving under the influence is so dangerous.
A DUI arrest means consequences in the form of jail time, hefty fines and penalties such as the loss of your driver’s license. Fines range into the thousands of dollars to be paid to the state, country or township. The loss of the driver’s license is anywhere from 30 days to many years.
The blood alcohol content limit across all states is 0.08. If you were involved in an accident and the police suspect you of being under the influence, they can issue you a breathalyzer test which will determine the blood alcohol content of the driver. The police can also order a blood test to get a more accurate reading of your blood alcohol content if they wish. Failure to comply with a test is an automatic arrest. It is best to immediately seek the counsel of a Seattle DUI attorney.
Many states have a progressive DUI policy. This means a first-time offender may not receive the maximum penalty allowed under the law. Sometimes the judge will use some discretion when sentencing those convicted of DUI, especially if the accused pleads guilty and demonstrates remorse for their actions. A Seattle DUI lawyer can explain this more clearly and as it relates to your particular arrest.
Generally speaking, a first time DUI conviction could lead to a suspended driver’s license for up to a year, a large fine and community service depending on how high your blood alcohol content was at the time of arrest. Once your driving rights are eventually restored, several points are added as well as an increase in your car insurance premiums. Serious Seattle DUI penalties include jail time, court-ordered alcohol rehabilitation courses and even a lifetime suspension of your driver’s license. It is best to speak with a Seattle DUI lawyer no matter what your blood alcohol content was.
