Driving drunk is something everyone knows they shouldn’t do, but many people still press their luck or start driving under the assumption they haven’t had too much to drink and can still handle driving home. This can cause serious accidents, so police officers are always on the lookout for those who are driving under the influence. When they stop a person they believe has been drinking, they can arrest the person and charge them with a DUI.
Drunk Driving Laws in Pennsylvania
If a person is tested and their BAC (blood alcohol content) is over .08% if they are over 21 or .02% if they are under 21, they can be arrested and charged with a DUI. Pennsylvania does have tiered penalties, depending on the BAC level. These start at .08%, .10% and .16%, with the higher BAC level having a much more severe penalty. The lowest penalties for a person who is convicted of their first DUI in the last 10 years includes no minimum jail time and $300 in fines. If the person refuses to take a BAC test, they can be required to have an IID (Interlock Ignition Device) in their vehicle.
Can a Lawyer Help?
In Pennsylvania, a person cannot have the charges lowered to a wet reckless charge like in many other states. However, if the person hires a Drunk Driving Lawyer in Pottstown PA, the lawyer may be able to have the charges dropped. This can be because their rights were not upheld during the stop and arrest, because there is insufficient evidence for a charge, or because of another issue that could mean evidence cannot be used against the person. The lawyer will be able to review their case to determine which defenses will apply and work to help them have the charges dismissed.
Anyone who is arrested and charged with a DUI in Pennsylvania will want to hire a lawyer to find out what their options are. Even if there is sufficient evidence for a conviction, the lawyer may still be able to have the charges dismissed by proving evidence cannot be used in court or they may be able to help their client avoid the more severe penalties. If you’ve been arrested and would like to learn more about the penalties you are facing or how to hire a Drunk Driving Lawyer in Pottstown PA, visit.
