Navigating DUI Charges: Consequences, Testing Procedures, and Legal Strategies

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense with legal consequences that can impact various aspects of an individual's life. Understanding the procedures, potential mistakes, and legal strategies is crucial for anyone facing such a situation. This article consolidates key information to provide a comprehensive overview of DUI-related issues.

Consequences of Refusing Tests

Refusing blood or breath tests when suspected of DUI carries significant consequences:

1. Driver's License Revocation: Automatic 12-month revocation, with a chance for reinstatement after sixty days under certain conditions.

2. Persistent Drunk Driver Designation: Refusal categorizes the individual as a Persistent Drunk Driver, subjecting them to harsher penalties.

3. Interlock Device Installation: Reinstatement may require an interlock ignition device for two years, testing for alcohol and preventing the car from starting if detected.

4. SR-22 Additional Auto Insurance: SR-22 insurance is required, leading to significant increases in insurance rates for high-risk drivers.

5. Alcohol Education Courses: Refusal may require enrollment in Level II DUI classes, which can be time-consuming and expensive.

DUI Testing Procedures

Understanding the procedures for DUI testing is essential to potentially avoid obtaining one:

1. Breath and Blood Tests: Both tests measure Blood Alcohol Content (BAC), with a blood test considered more precise.

2. Breath Test: Pre-arrest roadside tests are optional, but post-arrest breath tests are mandatory, and refusal leads to license suspension.

3. Blood Test: A more accurate method requiring a blood sample, with the option to request an independent blood test.

4. DUI Attorney: Consulting with McKenzie Law PLLC is recommended to challenge test results and potentially reduce charges.

Potential Officer Mistakes and Tips for Drivers:

Awareness of potential mistakes by officers and tips for drivers can be very beneficial know when trying NOT to obtain a DUI:

1. Mistakes by Officers: Timing of breath tests and incorrect advisement of law are highlighted as potential mistakes.

2. Tips for Dealing with DUI Stops: Emphasizes politeness and courtesy but cautions against excessive cooperation, advocating for the protection of individual rights during a stop.

3. Big Mistakes for Drivers: Advises against allowing vehicle searches, consenting to field sobriety tests, and admitting alcohol consumption.

4. Defense Lawyer Challenges: Defense lawyers can challenge every part of a DUI stop, questioning the validity of the stop itself.

AT MCKENZIE LAW, WE DO EXACTLY THAT, FIGHTING UNTIL THE VERY END FOR YOU AND YOUR CASE. REACH OUT VIA THE LINK BELOW TO GET IN CONTACT WITH WES SO THAT HE CAN FIGHT AND POTENTIALLY WIN YOUR CASE.