If you enjoy going out to bars or spending time at parties, there is a chance that you could have alcohol at those events. Alcohol in and of itself isn’t bad, but if you decide to drive, you could end up facing serious repercussions.
Did you know that while the per-se limit is .08%, you could actually be stopped and arrested at a lower blood alcohol concentration? Making an error on the road, like swerving to avoid what you thought was a hazard, might draw an officer’s attention. If you had anything at all to drink, they may attribute your actions to being impaired.
A first-offense DUI should be taken just as seriously as if you’ve faced charges before. Why? Even this first-offense accusation could harm your reputation and lead to serious trouble.
What are the penalties a first-time offender would face upon conviction?
If you are convicted of drinking and driving, you could be imprisoned for between 48 hours and 11 months and 29 days. If you have a blood alcohol concentration over .2%, the minimum jail time will increase to seven days.
As a first-time offender, you could be ordered to go to an alcohol and drug treatment program and have your license revoked for a year. There is a potential to obtain a restricted license, which could help you maintain your job or keep up with your other responsibilities.
If anyone was harmed as a result of your drinking and driving, then you will be asked to pay restitution for their losses. On top of that, there are administrative penalties that range from $350 to $1,500 in fines depending on the case.
First-time offenders must use Ignition Interlock Devices if ordered. Those are installed at your expense and may cost $1,000 or more in the first year. All added together, a first-time conviction for a DUI is expected to cost an average of $4,900.
As you can see, a first offense can be costly. On top of these expenses, you could have your career put at risk or face other social consequences. It’s worth fighting back. You deserve a chance to defend yourself.
