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The Nitty Gritty Of A DUI
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by: RichardMilford
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Word Count: 452
Nowadays it is common to hear the abbreviation DUI and task forces for that offense are always making the news. Nevertheless, there are still those who don't know the basics of what DUI is or what it even stands for.
DUI is actually driving under the influence and this actually means that a person has decided to operate a motorized vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Although the states all have different definitions of what a DUI is, in each state driving while under the influence of substances is illegal.
A DUI charge is a criminal charge. Though alcohol is legal to drink for individuals over 21, driving while your blood/alcohol content is above the legal limits is illegal. Additionally, being under the influence of illegal drugs is obviously a crime, but driving while being impaired by even prescription medications can be a crime as well.
Nowadays it is common for law enforcement officials to keep an eye out for those that possibly are driving while under the influence. Usually it is driving in an erratic manner that will catch an officer's attention and this is generally a good sign, because driving under the influence results in lack of focus and slower reactions of the suspected driver.
Initially, if an officer pulls you over he will question you if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. From there he will probably have you perform some field sobriety tests. These test your coordination and reactions. It may be walking on a straight line or stand on one leg and touch your nose with each hand. Should he feel the driver is DUI he will ask the driver to submit to a breathalyzer test or even blood tests to check your current levels are.
It is necessary to remember that laws vary from state to state but most will allow the driver to decide which advanced test to take. There is also something called implied consent, which is found in each state. What this means is that at the time you got your license you consented to be tested if you were stopped. The point here is that driving is a privilege and you are putting many innocent people on the road and yourself in danger.
Each state has its own punishments for DUI offenses. The most common consequences to be expected are jail time, community service, fines, probation or a suspended license. The severity of the consequences will depend on just how severe the crime was. For example, if your blood levels were way over the legal limit or if it is not a first offense then you can safely assume that your punishment will be more severe than for a lesser infraction.
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