All of the states have laws regarding excessive alcohol use before driving. Federally, the legal limit is .08 percent. You may realize that you can end up with a DUI or DWI for driving while intoxicated. These charges are normally the same, though they may be different across states.
One thing that many people don’t realize is that you can get a DUI without reaching the .08 percent limit. If a person is intoxicated enough that their driving is dangerous or reckless, then the police have the potential to take them off the road, take them to the station and penalize them with a DUI charge.
DUIs are a growing concern with harsh penalties
Over time, DUIs have become such a concern that there have been more laws and restrictions made in regard to DUI charges and penalties. There are different categories for drunk driving charges, and the category of charge you face is based on various factors, like your driving behaviors and if anyone was hurt by your actions.
DUI regulations and laws state that commercial drivers can be charged if they have a BAC of .04 percent or higher, while typical drivers need only to meet the .08 percent limit. If you don’t meet these limits, you could face lesser charges even if a DUI charge doesn’t apply. Those might be charges like reckless driving.
Long-term penalties add up with DUI charges
Long-term consequences of DUIs may include having to pay higher insurance rates, losing your job, going through costly legal battles, spending time in jail or prison, having a conviction on your record for years to come and more. It’s normal for a DUI to cost thousands after considering the impact on your job, social life and time, the fees of a DUI and other penalties.
How can you avoid a DUI in New York?
One of the things you can do to avoid a DUI is to carry a small Breathalyzer. A personal Breathalyzer gives you the opportunity to test your BAC whenever you’re drinking, so you know if you’re too intoxicated to drive.
It’s also possible to plan in advance for another person to take you home or to get a ride from a ride-sharing service or a taxi.
If you are charged with a DUI, defending yourself is a necessity. The right information could help you walk away without facing penalties for a DUI.
