Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is extremely dangerous. The consequences can be severe, including legal trouble and serious harm to everyone involved. It is important to understand these risks to keep our roads and communities safe.
When you are impaired, your reaction times slow down, your judgment is poor, and your motor skills are not as sharp as they regularly are. Not only do you put yourself at risk, but you also endanger passengers, pedestrians and other drivers on the road.
When police catch you
Virginia enforces an implied consent law, which states that every driver must comply with a blood or breath test when required by the police. You can be charged with a DUI if a police officer uses a breathalyzer or blood test and determines the amount of alcohol in your blood is 0.08% or higher. The maximum allowed is 0.04% for commercial drivers and 0.02% for those under 21.
For other drugs, the limit of blood concentration is 0.02 milligrams of cocaine, 0.1 milligrams of methamphetamine, 0.01 milligrams of phencyclidine (PCP), or 0.1 milligrams of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA).
If you refuse to take the test, there are serious consequences. For a first refusal, your driver’s license will be suspended for one year without the option for a restricted license. This means you cannot legally drive under any circumstance during this period.
What are the legal consequences?
When asked to take a test, the police officer must inform you of the consequences of refusal and allow you to contact a lawyer. Refusing to take a test can also be used against you in court, making it harder to defend yourself against DUI charges.
For a first DUI offense, you could face a fine of up to $2,500, a mandatory minimum fine of $250, a driver’s license suspension for one year, and possibly up to 12 months in jail. Additionally, the court may require you to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle.
If you are charged with a DUI, even if it is for the first time, seeking legal advice is crucial. An experienced DIU attorney can provide guidance and help negotiate reduced charges.
A DUI conviction carries severe consequences, such as fines, license suspension and potential jail time. It is essential to understand Virginia’s DUI laws and make responsible decisions. If you plan to drink, consider using a designated driver or alternative transportation options to ensure your safety and those of others on the road.
