Driving under the influence of alcohol is a significant offense. If you are arrested for DUI, you should know your rights under West Virginia law. In this article, you will learn the basics of drunk driving and DUI laws. if you have more detailed questions, you should call a West Virginia DUI Lawyer.
It Doesn’t Take Much to be Over the Legal Limit
Although states have different laws on drunk driving, they all share a common DUI threshold. In every state, if your BAC (blood alcohol content) is .08% or above, you will be arrested for DUI. BAC is a measure of the amount of alcohol in your bloodstream, and depending on your weight, it could take as few as two drinks to put you over the limit. DWI Attorneys Martinsburg WV can give you more information on West Virginia DUI law.
Taking Field Sobriety Tests
If a law enforcement officer pulls you over because of suspected drunk driving, they may compel you to take field sobriety tests. These tests consist of exercises such as:
* Balancing on one leg
* Walking in a straight line
* Keeping your neck and head still while following a small light with only your eyes
If you perform poorly on any portion of the field sobriety test, the officer will have more reasons to place you under arrest.
Driving While Drunk can Lead to Significant Fines and Lengthy Jail Sentences
Every state has its own penalties for DUI, and if you would like to learn more about the rules in your state, you should call DWI Attorneys Martinsburg WV. However, penalties are similar in many states, and can include:
* Heavy fines
* Jail/prison time
* Mandatory community service
* Loss of driving privileges
* Required installation of an ignition interlock, which requires you to pass a breath alcohol test before starting your vehicle
As an additional deterrent, some states regard subsequent DUIs as felonies. DWI Attorneys Martinsburg WV can advise you as to the severity of your offense.
Consequences of Refusing to Take BAC Tests
Most states have implied consent laws. As a condition of receiving a driver’s license, you must consent to a BAC test if an officer thinks you are driving under the influence. Although penalties for refusing a test vary by state, you are likely to lose your driver’s license for up to a year. If you are facing DUI charges, call DWI Attorneys Martinsburg WV for legal advice
