Being arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense with severe legal and practical consequences that can haunt you for years to come. Even if it is your first DUI charge, you could be facing jail time, license suspension, significant fines, potential job loss, and more. But despite the gravity of the situation, there are steps you can take to minimize the impact of the charges. Let’s take a look at what you need to do after a DUI arrest, from understanding your rights to finding a lawyer and completing alcohol education classes, so that you can look out for yourself in the wake of the incident.
What is a DUI?
A DUI is when you are caught operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. This can include prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and illegal substances.
Most states have laws that make it illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. But you can be arrested for DUI at lower levels in some states, especially if you are underage or have previous DUI convictions.
Know Your Rights
If you have been arrested for DUI, the first thing you need to do is remain calm. You have the right to remain silent. As noted by the people at Cornerstone DUI Services, anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law, so the less you say, the better. You also have the right to an attorney. We will get to that next!
You have the right to a fair and speedy trial, and the right to appeal your conviction. Lastly, you may be required to submit to a chemical test to determine your blood alcohol content (BAC). Refusal to take the test can result in automatic license suspension, so it is best to comply.
Know more about florida law.
Call a Lawyer
There are many reasons why a driver might call a lawyer, such as when they are buying or selling a car, when they are pulled over, or if they are involved in an accident that was not their fault. But one of the most important reasons to call a lawyer is if you have been arrested for driving under the influence.
When you have the chance, you need to call a lawyer. Legal professionals can help you to resolve the DUI and get your license back if it has been suspended. You might have to complete alcohol awareness classes in order to get back on the roads, and they can be provided through your attorney.
Being arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense with potentially long-term consequences. Being informed and knowing your rights are essential to minimizing any damage from the situation. If you or someone you know has been arrested for DUI, we strongly suggest that you look into hiring an experienced lawyer who specializes in DUI cases. Additionally, it is important to complete any court-mandated classes on alcohol awareness, as this can help you to get your license back in the wake of your DUI.
