Drunk driving is a severe and dangerous problem plaguing our roads and highways. Despite the knowledge that drunk driving can lead to severe consequences, such as jail time, license suspension, and even death, people still choose to drive while under the influence of alcohol.
This blog post will discuss the potential consequences of drunk driving in California.
Drunk Driving In California
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in California, and the consequences of being convicted can be severe. In California, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, and a DUI can be issued even if the driver’s BAC is below this threshold if their driving behavior indicates that they are impaired. According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were over 27,000 DUI arrests in California in 2019 alone.
DUI Penalties In California
Regarding penalties for DUI offenses in California, the punishments increase with each additional offense. For a first-time offender, this could include jail time of up to six months, fines of up to $1,000 plus court fees and assessments, license suspension for up to 10 months, and mandatory completion of an alcohol education program.
A second offense carries harsher penalties, such as jail time of up to one year, fines of up to $2,500 plus court fees and assessments, and license suspension for two years or more.
A third offense carries even harsher punishments, such as jail time of up to one year or longer, fines of up to $3,000 plus court fees and assessments, and license suspension for three years or more.
The fourth offense carries even more severe consequences, such as jail time of 18 months or longer; fines of up to $18,000 plus court fees and assessments; license revocation; required installation of an ignition interlock device; mandatory participation in a DUI program; and community service hours.
What Happens If I Get Pulled Over?
If you are pulled over by an officer on suspicion of DUI in California, you may be asked to take field sobriety tests such as walking heel-to-toe in a straight line or standing on one leg for 30 seconds.
While these tests can help officers determine whether you are under the influence, they are not 100% accurate, so it is essential that you consult with an attorney before taking them if possible.
What Is A Breathalyzer?
A breathalyzer is a device law enforcement uses to measure the amount of alcohol in a person’s blood. A police officer will usually ask a driver suspected of driving under the influence to take a breathalyzer test to measure their blood alcohol content (BAC). The officer will ask the driver to blow into a tube connected to the device, which will then measure the amount of alcohol present in their breath. In California, you can refuse to take a breathalyzer test. However, this refusal may result in an automatic 1-year license suspension.
Best DUI Attorneys In California
If you have been charged with a DUI in California, hiring an experienced attorney from Marley Law Firm by calling (949) 726-6000 can make all the difference in your case outcome.
One of our experienced attorneys will be able to review your case thoroughly; explain your legal rights; advise you on potential defenses that could reduce or dismiss your charges; negotiate on your behalf with prosecutors; prepare legal documents; represent you at hearings or trial if necessary; help minimize any potential penalties associated with your case; explain any changes that may occur regarding your driving privileges after conviction; and provide support throughout the entire process.
