Driving under the influence (DUI) is a topic that has gained considerable popularity among filmmakers, TV shows, and internet users. But at the same time, it’s often misunderstood.
The problem is that misinformation can make it harder for drivers to know what to do if caught up in DUI situations. If you’re ever charged with such an offense, the first order of business is to retain the services of a criminal defense lawyer with experience handling DUI cases.
A good legal professional will help clear your mind of misconceptions that people tend to adopt based on myths, outdated opinions, and oversimplifications by movies or TV shows. Convictions can bring on strict consequences, so finding a lawyer can boost your odds of a good outcome.
With that said, here are five misconceptions related to DUI charges that you might believe are true.
1. You have to be drunk to get a DUI
Arguably, the biggest misconception about DUI is that you have to appear drunk to face charges. The reality is that most DUI laws imply that a person affected by alcohol or drugs can be charged if the alcohol or drugs render him or her incapable of proper judgment while driving.
It’s important to be mindful of your blood alcohol content (BAC), which refers to how much alcohol is in your blood. Alcohol.org notes that all U.S. states now recognize a 0.08% BAC reading as a sign of intoxication. Some states issue penalties at other BAC levels, too.
So, even if you feel fine, don’t have slurred speech, and otherwise believe you didn’t drink excessively, a DUI is an option if your BAC reading meets the 0.08% legal threshold.
Even small amounts of alcohol can reduce your capability to perform basic driving activities, such as judging distance, reacting, and coordinating movements. Besides alcohol, you can face DUI charges related to drugs or medicines that can impair your driving skills.
2. A first DUI isn’t a serious problem
DUIs are considered serious criminal acts, but many people believe that a first-time charge is a relatively minor problem that doesn’t really matter. In reality, DUI charges may cause problems like the following:
- Loss of your driver’s license
- Fines, penalties, and probation
- Mandatory education and counseling classes
- Higher insurance rates
- Criminal records
A DUI conviction can also influence other aspects of your life, including the following:
- College and university applications
- Job opportunities and careers
- Vacation travel possibilities and opportunities
High insurance rates due to a DUI charge can last for several years, meaning you’ll be paying extra money every month. That can be tough if you’re already paying too much as it is.
Being charged and facing consequences can add additional stress, potentially negatively affecting your personal well-being.
3. You can easily talk your way out of a DUI stop
Police officers are specialists who are trained to properly investigate DUI incidents. So, you likely won’t succeed if the plan is to use the gift of gab to talk your way out of a DUI arrest.
When investigating suspected impairment, officers check the following:
- Driving activity
- Response time
- Coordination
- Behavior
- Body odor
Officers may also conduct field sobriety tests or use chemical testing methods if they suspect impairment. So, being friendly, kind, or polite is usually not enough to save you from charges.
Besides, arguing with the police may cause unnecessary stress that’ll only harm your chances.
4. Coffee or cold air will sober you up fast
Another major misconception about DUI relates to ways to sober up quickly and drive safely. Some people believe they can easily sober up using cold showers, drinking coffee, eating something, or opening windows.
However, nothing can really sober anyone up immediately. The body metabolizes alcohol, and this process takes a relatively long time.
Although coffee can make you more alert for a while, it will not remove the feeling of intoxication, increase your reaction time, or improve your coordination. The same thing relates to cold air. While you’ll feel more refreshed after opening the window, it won’t sober you up.
5. DUI charges only affect the driver
Finally, many people believe that being charged with DUI will influence only their lives. However, DUI incidents have a negative effect on multiple people, including the following:
- The driver’s family members
- Other passengers
- Employer
- Friends
- Other drivers involved in the incident
- Communities
DUI consequences include financial issues and legal troubles, which can be very hard for families. The death of a loved one or even an injury can change the lives of several generations.
Misconceptions about DUI charges often stem from outdated opinions or media representations.
Sometimes people underestimate the impact even a little bit of alcohol can have on their driving. If you drink, don’t drive. There are too many other options available to risk criminal charges.
DUI charges have a much bigger impact than many think, so separate fact from fiction to make better decisions.
This content is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. AFP editorial staff were not involved in the creation of this content.
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