DUI Arrest Information

Each year, more than one million DUI arrests are made in the United States. Approximately two-thirds of these DUI arrests involve first-time DUI offenders. If you have recently been arrested and charged with driving under the influence, you should contact an experienced defense attorney specializing in drunk-driving law in order to learn more about DUI arrest information.

A DUI arrest may be made when a driver operates a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher. Commercial drivers and minors can be arrested with a much lower BAC level. While the specific penalties for driving under the influence vary from state to state, DUI offenders may face jail time, probation, and fines.

During a DUI arrest, the officer may ask you to perform three standardized field sobriety tests: the walk-and-turn test, the one-leg stand test, and the horizontal gaze nystagmus test. These tests are used by the officer to determine if a DUI arrest can be made.

The officer will also ask you to submit to a breath, blood, or urine test to determine your BAC. Due to your state’s Implied Consent laws, which you agreed to when you received your driver’s license, your driving privileges may be suspended for merely refusing to take a chemical test.

After learning of your DUI arrest, the DMV may administratively suspend or revoke your driver’s license. You have a limited timeframe in which to request a hearing regarding your license. If you fail to request a hearing during this time, your license will automatically be suspended.

A DUI arrest may be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony. If the driver was involved in an accident that caused property damage or injuries, it’s more likely a driver will be charged with a felony. Repeat offenders are also more likely to be charged with felony DUI.

There are other circumstances that can increase the severity of your penalties. These factors include: driving at excessive speeds, transporting a minor, possessing a BAC of .20% or higher, refusing chemical testing, or causing injury or property damage. Habitual offenders will also face enhanced penalties.

If you have recently faced a DUI arrest, you should speak to a skilled DUI defense lawyer. There are numerous defense strategies that can be used in your behalf to protect your rights.