When a person makes the bad decision to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they are going to face serious repercussions that may follow them for years to come. No person who has a blood alcohol content that is above 0.08 percent is permitted to operate a motor vehicle. If the person who is operating a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol is under the age of 21, they can be charged with an OUI offense if the blood alcohol content is above 0.02 percent.
First-time OUI offenses result in a one-year license suspension, at least 48 hours of jail time, and fines of up to $1,000. Of course, like any crime, additional offenses come with more severe penalties. Second offense OUI convictions will result in a one-year license suspension, the installation of an ignition interlock device for two years, 120 days of jail time, and a fine of anywhere between $1,000 and $4,000. Third and subsequent offenses will result in a fine of up to $8,000, a minimum of one year in jail, 100 hours of community service, and finally the revocation of your driver’s license.
The situations become further more severe when you are required to install an ignition interlock device in your car. Ignition interlock devices require the driver to take a chemical breath test each time they start their car. If there is any alcohol in your BAC, your car will not start. In addition, you will be financially responsible for the costs associated with the ignition interlock device. If you have been charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you should retain the services of an experienced attorney as soon as possible.
Marc N. Needelman is an experienced Traffic Violations attorney working throughout the state of Connecticut. Contact the law firm to set up a free initial consultation.
