If you have been drinking, you should avoid driving. Even a single drink may impair your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. Additionally, driving while intoxicated (DWI) is illegal in New York.
Also, despite what many people think, there’s no quick way to “sober up.” No amount of coffee or food will make you sober. The only option is to wait until your body has absorbed all the alcohol you consumed.
If you are pulled over and arrested for DWI, there are a few different charges you can face. What you are charged with depends on your level of intoxication and other factors.
Different types of alcohol-related violations in New York
The different types of alcohol-related violations you can be charged with in New York include:
- DWI: If you have a BAC of .08 or higher; operators of commercial motor vehicles are arrested with a BAC of .04.
- Aggravated DWI: Occurs if you have a BAC of .18 or higher at the time of your arrest.
- Driving While Ability Impaired by Alcohol (DWAI): You have a BAC of .05 but under .07.
- Chemical test refusal: You can be arrested if you refuse to take a chemical test.
- Zero tolerance law: Anyone under the age of 21 with a BAC of .02 to .07 is in violation of this law.
Protecting your rights when arrested for DWI
If you are arrested for violating any of the above laws, it’s important to remember that you have rights. It’s best to cooperate with the police but say very little about what you have been doing. You shouldn’t attempt to defend yourself, either. Anything you say during your arrest can be used against you. It’s also smart to look into the legal options you have after being arrested for DWI in New York.
