Long sunny days and warm nights are perfect for Pennsylvania get-togethers. You may face a drunk driving charge if you drink alcoholic beverages at these events and get behind the wheel after having a few too many. We often provide legal representation to clients fighting to keep their driver’s licenses and their civil liberties.
Although DUI is a common term, it may not be clear what happens when law enforcement pulls you over.
Arrest record
After confirming your identity, he or she may request that you take a field sobriety or breath test. If you fail the test or refuse to take it, the officer can place you in handcuffs and take you to the police station. According to USA Today, they take your mugshot and fingerprints before putting you in a jail cell for the night and entering your arrest record into their system.
Conviction consequences
If this is your first offense, the penalty depends on your blood alcohol content. If it is between .08% and 0.00%, you will have to pay a fine and have six months’ probation. You could have jail time, license suspension for up to a year and fined up to $5,000 when your BAC is .10% to higher than .16%
Penalties become more severe with additional offenses, including extended jail time. Mandatory alcohol highway safety classes and an ignition interlock device installed may help you get your license back. Auto insurance rates typically skyrocket if you can get a policy, and you may become ineligible for some types of jobs. It could increase the offense severity to a felony if you caused an accident involving damages or injuries. Loss of civil liberties could include losing the right to vote and own a firearm.
The consequences of a DUI conviction cost far more than money. Avoiding a conviction by presenting a strong defense can help you keep the life you love and move forward.
