Getting arrested for drunk driving can impact your future. You may have to spend time in jail, pay a large fine, perform community service and go without your driving privileges for a period of time if convicted.
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, it is illegal to operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol content level at or above 0.08%. Even if law enforcement pulls you over and arrests you for DUI, you can still defend your case and potentially mitigate the consequences you face.
Improper stop by law enforcement
The law enforcement official who pulls you over for drunk driving must have grounds for initiating a traffic stop. If you were obeying the speed limit, not swerving out of your lane and following all traffic laws, the official may have stopped you improperly.
Medical conditions
Certain medical conditions can mimic the symptoms of intoxication. For example, allergies can result in red, watery eyes and certain neurological conditions and fatigue can lead to slurred speech.
Failure to follow the testing protocol
While conducting a field sobriety test, law enforcement officials must follow predetermined protocols. If the law enforcement official conducting your arrest strayed from these protocols, there may not be enough evidence to support your DUI case.
Getting arrested for DUI can feel overwhelming, and you may have concerns about how a potential conviction could impact your reputation, finances and employment on a short and long-term basis. Showing up to all court hearings, cooperating with officials and defending your case can help you move forward after this event.
