Driving under the influence (DUI) penalties are applied when a person is found guilty of driving under the influence of alcohol or a substance that is defined under applicable statutes as having the effect of impairing the judgment and capability of the person to respond effectively while driving. In some cases, you may face criminal offences for driving under the influence, and if you are released, you may have to part with huge fines.
Here are some things you should know about DUI penalties.
Timing is extremely important
One of the things you must observe if you are pulled over for DUI and booked is timing. You need to observe all the dates that are mentioned in the charge and this is to help you avoid piling more fines and probably risking losing your license. Make sure to observe all dates to prevent missed appointments for the DUI process. This will save you both time and money, and sometimes stress.
Be ready to lose your license
Once you are charged with DUI, chances are high you will lose your license. It is suspended and the arresting officer may take the license and issue you with a temporary one. The temporary license comes with an expiry date that in most cases matches with your DMW appearance. Failure to request a hearing will lead to an automatic suspension of your license, and it can be returned after you have pleaded your case at the hearing.
There are two license suspension types
The license suspension terms that can be applied in your case exist in two categories: “hard” suspensions and “restricted” suspensions. Suppose you failed to prevail at the DMV hearing, you are given a 30-day “hard” suspension of the license, so no driving at all. After the 30 days, you may apply for a restricted license at the DMV, and this is as long as you file the SR-22 insurance form. In the case of a restricted license suspension, you are only allowed to drive to and from work.
What is SR-22 insurance?
This is a type of insurance you apply for that will allow you to get back your license after conviction. The document gives proof of financial responsibility and you must carry it until the probation period comes to an end, when the insurance expires.
It’s not just about alcohol
Many people assume that driving under influence is only applicable if you have taken alcohol, but that is not always the case because you can be charged for driving under the influence of other substances like legal and illegal drugs. Even over-the-counter drugs may get you in trouble, so make sure to learn about the different classes of drugs for which you may be prosecuted of caught driven after taking them.
A DUI penalty, which means driving under the influence, is issued when you are caught driving under the influence. This does not have to be alcohol because any other illegal substance will still get you nabbed and charged. If charged with DUI offense, make sure to observe all dates issued as this could aggravate your situation.
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