Top 22 Facts About DUI Cases in the USA
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Any time you are caught driving after consuming drugs or alcohol, it is called a DUI – driving under the influence. There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about DUIs, so make sure you know the facts.
- A first-time DUI can result in up to 6 months in jail, a $1,000 fine, and a driver’s license suspension.
- A DUI can also result in a criminal record.
- Anyone caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher can be charged with a DUI.
- You can also be charged with a DUI if you are impaired by drugs, even if your BAC is below the legal limit.
- If you refuse to submit to a chemical test, you can be charged with a DUI.
- You can get a DUI even if you are not operating the vehicle at the time of your arrest. For instance, if the keys are in the ignition and you are in front of the steering wheel of a non-moving vehicle, it is still considered a DUI.
- If you are involved in an accident while driving under the influence, you can be convicted of a DUI even if there is no damage to persons or property.
- If you are convicted of a DUI, you will have to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle.
- You can claim compensation if you have been injured in a DUI accident. When you suffer from DUI accident injuries in a city like Las Vegas, which has some of the nation’s highest DUI rates, consider legal help from reputable firms such as Benson & Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers.
- You can be charged with a DUI even if you are not the driver of the vehicle. For example, if you are a passenger in a car and the driver is drunk, you can be charged with a DUI.
- If you are found guilty of a DUI, the judge may revoke your driver’s license permanently.
- You may be required to attend alcohol education classes or treatment as part of your sentence for a DUI conviction.
- You’ll be liable for restitution if convicted of a DUI and someone was injured due to your actions.
- DUI conviction will likely increase your car insurance rates for several years.
- An open alcohol container in the vehicle may be charged as a DUI in some states even if the driver is not impaired when pulled over.
- Repeat DUI offenders may be placed on probation.
- A DUI can affect your employment status.
- A DUI can affect your immigration status.
- You can be charged with a felony if you are convicted of a DUI with serious injury or death.
- If you are convicted of a felony DUI, you’ll face prison time in addition to applicable fines.
- A DUI will stay on your criminal record for life.
- A DUI may bar you from entering foreign countries as a US citizen.
Stay Out of Trouble on the Road with Sober Driving
The best way to avoid getting a DUI is sober driving. If you are going to drink, make sure you have a designated driver. Take public transportation or call a cab if you have been drinking. And always remember, it is never worth it to drink and drive.
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