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We understand that drinking and driving may never be your intent. However, too often a lapse in judgment(which always comes with drinking) may get the best of you. What if you do the unthinkable and get behind the wheel of a car after consuming alcohol? You may get caught, arrested, and charged and you will be lucky to not have taken someone’s life. If this is the first offense, there are a few things that are going to happen to you in this process. Continue reading to see what you can expect if you are ever pulled over for driving under the influence.

The Arrest

First, you will be subjected to a field sobriety test. This could include things such as the officer having you walk a straight line, follow a pen or small light with your eyes, and a breathalyzer test which will give an approximation of your blood alcohol content.

If you refuse the tests, are found to be impaired, or blow above the legal limit, you will be arrested. You will be brought to the jail and booked. Confirmation blood or urine test may be run to check for a more exact blood alcohol level as well as the presence of drugs.

The Court Date

Usually the next morning, you will be released from custody and given a date to appear in court. If you plead not guilty, a jury or judge will decide your guilt after a trial. You may face a temporary suspension on your license until your trial date. If you plead guilty or are found guilty there are a few things that will happen next.

The Consequences

Depending on your state, your level of intoxication, and many other factors, your charge will either be a felony or a misdemeanor. You may have to pay a fine, enroll in a driver’s safety class, serve probation, participate in community service, temporarily have your driving privileges revoked, spend some time in jail, or any combination of these things. Your auto insurance rates will nearly double and you may need to use an ignition interlock system on your vehicle like the ones we offer.

If you find yourself in this situation, contact us for more information on installing an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. With time, your record can be cleaned up and your auto rates will eventually decline. Always remember to drive safely, drink responsibly, and make sure your first DUI is also your last DUI.

 

*Links to any third-party websites herein are provided for your reference and convenience only. RoadGuard Interlock did not create nor develop and does not own any such third-party websites. RoadGuard Interlock does not endorse nor support the content of, nor any opinions stated in any such third-party website links. RoadGuard Interlock is not responsible for the content of any third-party website or its accuracy or reliability. Nothing contained in this article or in any such third-party website shall be considered legal advice or be deemed to constitute legal advice. For any legal advice concerning a DUI arrest, charge, conviction, or consequences thereof, you should contact an attorney of your choice.