DUI and what you need to know

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DUI Law and What you need to know

 

Knowing about the laws concerning a DUI offense can benefit those who have been charged with the said felony. Doing so enables them to understand their rights and responsibilities as motorists.

 

With regard to this matter, here is a general look at the laws governing DUI or driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol:

 

Before anything else, it is important to know that DUI laws vary from one area to another; Nevertheless, they are all executed through a common set of procedures.

 

First, a police officer can order a motorist to pull over if the former suspects that the latter is drunk driving. The officer may base his observation through the driving pattern or the physical appearance of the individual. Once the person has been pulled over, he will be asked to provide his driver's license. In some cases, the policeman may ask for additional documents such as an auto insurance card and vehicle registration from the motorist.

 

Next, the officer will require the suspected drunk driver to undergo a roadside sobriety test. He will be released if he passes the examination, but he will be arrested and taken to a selected police station if he fails the test. Furthermore, his license can be suspended for a specific period of time. The suspension of the license of the driver may range from a few months to a year depending on whether he is a first-time or a repeat offender. In addition, certain DUI laws may oblige the accused person to surrender his vehicle.

 

Upon arrival to the station, he will undergo blood, breath, and urine testing. He still has a chance of being freed if he passes these medical examinations, but if he does not, his DUI charge will be sent to court. When this happens, he will need to acquire the services of a drunk driving attorney. If he cannot afford to hire a lawyer, one will be assigned by the state to represent him in court. Aside from license suspension and vehicle confiscation, there are other penalties which a court can give to an individual who has been found guilty of drunk driving. These include the payment of fines, requirement to attend a DUI school, and even imprisonment.

 

However, through the help of an attorney, he can discredit the evidence set against him and clear his case or lessen his sentence.