Understand the Consequences of Driving Under the Influence

November 5, 2018 Off By Delores V. Stalnaker

If you’re pulled over under suspicion for driving while intoxicated, there’s little you can do in the way of avoiding a blood alcohol content test. Simply by obtaining your driver’s license, you’re giving complied consent to the test. This means refusing to take the test is enough to cause the suspension or revocation of your license. If you have been drinking and register a BAC that’s at or over the legal limit, the penalties you face will depend on your driving history.

Even if this is your first offense, it’s advisable to consult an experienced DUI lawyer in Orange County, FL. This is because a conviction means a revocation of your license for a period from 180 days up to one year. Your lawyer may be able to help you obtain a hardship license, which allows you to drive between home and work or school. Additionally, you will have to attend DUI school, pay reinstatement fees, pass another driver’s exam, and increase auto insurance coverage to $100,000 for bodily injury per person and property damage to $50,000.

A second DUI conviction also results in a license revocation, but the revocation period depends on when the incident takes place. If the second conviction is not within five years of the first conviction, you’ll again face a one year revocation. If it has been less than five years between convictions, your license may be revoked for up to five years. Reinstatement of your license requires similar fees and requirements, but, additionally, you must receive a written recommendation for reinstatement by the Special Supervision Services Program.

If 10 years have passed, before you receive your third DUI conviction, you may only face a revocation of up to one year. However, if it has been less than 10 years between the second and third convictions, you’ll likely face a 10 year revocation. For your third offense, two years of the revocation period must be completed, before you’re considered eligible for a hardship license.

While you can’t refuse a blood alcohol test without facing consequences, there are ways to defend against a DUI charge. An experienced DUI lawyer will know how to defend you, depending on the circumstances of your case. Before making any statements to the police, it’s best to consult an attorney.

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