What Situations Can Lead to DUI Charges?
DUI, also known as driving under the influence one of the most common offenses drivers all across US face. When we think about DWI charges, an image of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol usually comes to our mind. However, in order to be arrested and charged for driving while intoxicated, you don’t have to actually be intoxicated with alcohol. A DUI offense is also committed when a person drives under the influence of drugs or other substances that may impair the driver’s ability to safely operate a vehicle. Many substances can leave a driver in a state of intoxication, and all of them fall under the crime of impaired driving. If you are facing drunk driving charges, it is crucial to hire a criminal justice lawyer as soon as possible to examine the evidence gathered against you and defend you at court of law. In case of conviction, you will have to pay hefty fines and possibly face jail time. An attorney can assist you and help you obtain the most positive outcome of the case.
Drug Intoxication
As we briefly mentioned above, apart from alcohol intoxication, being under influence of a number of illegal substances will also lead to DUI charges. Lists of illegal substances that can lead to drunk driving charges vary from country to country. In many states, prescription drugs that induce intoxication can also lead to being charged for driving under the influence.
Alcohol still is the major culprit of impaired driving. However, if you are found under the influence of other types of drugs, you will probably not only face a DWI arrest, but also additional severe charges. For example, if you possess illegal substance in your car when an officer suspects you are driving under the influence, you can also be arrested and charged not only for operating a vehicle while impaired, but also for possession of drugs. Have in mind that when a police officer pulls you over, he also has the right to search your vehicle. If a law enforcement officer finds any illegal substances in your car and has reasons to think you are intoxicated, you will be arrested and charged with DUI.
Risky or Suspicious Driving Behavior
Serious offenses such as drunk driving can occur even for drivers that have a BAC level lower than 0.8%. For example, if you are showing signs of intoxicated driving, such as reckless driving, slow driving that is too alert, drifting on the road, very narrow or very wide turns and similar, you can be arrested under the suspicion of DUI. Other suspicious behaviors also include frequent sudden breaking, neglecting marked lanes, driving on center lines, near crashes and similar. Only if you show signs of responsible and safe driving, you can keep yourself from legal issues. However, if you are wrongfully arrested, you must hire a lawyer to help you in dismissing the case. In case you have committed a DUI, an attorney can help you reduce penalties. No matter what are the circumstances of your charge and case, a professional can always try and turn things in your favor, saving you from harsh fines or prison time.