When it comes to the penalties a driver faces for operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, there are a host of factors that impact the outcome of their case. For example, a driver’s age, the state they live in, previous drunk driving offenses on their record and their blood alcohol content level can all play a role in the outcome of their case. When drivers are excessively drunk, this can lead to more serious penalties.
Many people do not realize that their blood alcohol content level can play such a role in the penalties they face. Sometimes, people face harsh penalties because their BAC level was slightly above a certain threshold.
The impact of one’s BAC level
According to the Department of Law and Public Safety, drivers whose BAC level registers between 0.10 and 0.15 face harsher penalties in comparison to those whose BAC level registers between 0.08 and 0.09. With steeper financial penalties and harsher restrictions with respect to one’s ability to drive, it is often especially hard for people to move forward in life after these cases arise.
The consequences of DUI charges
In many states, the consequences of driving while very drunk are much harsher. However, there are legal strategies for people to review and some are able to secure a more favorable end result in court. Whether a driver is facing DUI charges over allegations that they were excessively drunk or they were stopped with a relatively small amount of alcohol in their system, it is imperative for people in this position to have a clear understanding of their rights.
