Hickory DWI/DUI Lawyer

If an officer suspects that you are under the influence while driving, they will measure the amount of alcohol in your blood. In order for an individual over the age of 21 to receive DWI/DUI charges, their blood alcohol content must be 0.08% or higher. However, alcohol affects everyone differently, and the rate at which your blood absorbs alcohol depends on several factors, including: 

• Food
• Weight
• Genetics
• Medications
• Fatigue
• Strength of drink
• Gender
• Rate of consumption
• Medical conditions

Certain medications and medical conditions may cause an individual to exhibit symptoms relating to intoxication, like swerving on the road and being unable to stand straight. If your medical condition or other factors above causes an officer to suspect you of driving under the influence, contact a DWI/DUI lawyer as soon as possible.

With a zero-tolerance policy for drunk drivers, North Carolina has harsh penalties for those operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Those with no prior DWI/DUI convictions will suffer less severe penalties than those with multiple drunk driving offenses. The following are examples of the punishments you may receive if convicted of driving while under the influence: 

Probation or Jail

First-offenders may face up to six months of probation, while those with multiple offenses may encounter jail time. The length of time depends on your blood alcohol content and whether the driver caused an accident due to their intoxication.

License Suspension

A driver’s license is a privilege, and if an individual breaks the rules of the road, they can have their license suspended and rights restricted. While those with no prior convictions may have their license suspended for four months or longer, those with two or more previous offenses can have their license suspended for multiple years. 

Fines

A DWI/DUI charge can come with significant fines that range between $300 and $5,000 depending on the individual’s BAC level, number of convictions, and whether they caused an accident due to their drunk driving. 

Ignition Interlock Device

An ignition interlock device (IID) is a breathalyzer that requires the driver to blow into the device’s mouthpiece before operating the vehicle. The device helps stop an individual from committing another DUI by preventing the person from driving when their breath contains alcohol. If there is no alcohol in the person’s breath, they can safely operate the vehicle. 

Mandatory Classes

Many of those who drink and drive will have mandatory classes that work to help prevent future DUI offenses. From handling alcohol abuse to the consequences of drunk driving, these programs offer advice and information about avoiding substance abuse and addiction. 

Social Repercussions

While the legal consequences can cause significant changes in your life, the social repercussions of a DWI/DUI charge can cause you and your family to suffer large life changes. For example, if you can no longer pick your children up from school, you may need to find other ways to transport your children. 

DUI charges can stay on your record for years and limit your ability to enjoy activities you previously enjoyed. When you work with a highly-qualified legal representative, they can help reduce the consequences of your DUI and offer you the best possible outcome.