Manassas Drunk Driving Attorney
As a condition of driving in the Commonwealth of Virginia, each driver automatically consents to being breath or blood tested to determine blood alcohol levels. According to Virginia Statute 18.2-268.3, the first time a driver refuses to be tested they will lose their license for a period of one year. Subsequent refusals will result in misdemeanor charges and their license will be revoked for even longer periods of time. If you are pulled over by the police for driving drunk you should follow their directions. You still have the right to remain silent about any traffic infractions until you have the opportunity to speak to a Manassas defense attorney. Contact the Manassas drunk driving attorneys at Simms Showers LLP about how we can assist you.
What Constitutes Drunk Driving?
All 50 states have the same laws regarding what constitutes driving under the influence. However, the punishments vary depending on the driver. For an adult over the age of 21, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) over .08 percent is considered driving drunk. For anyone below the legal drinking age a BAC of .02 percent is considered driving drunk. Commercial drivers must keep their BAC under .04 percent. The severity of penalties a person will receive if convicted of a DUI will depend on how many prior DUIs they have. Some possible outcomes include:
- License suspension;
- Restricted driver’s license;
- Ignition interlock device;
- Fines;
- Jail time;
- Requirement to take Virginia’s Alcohol Safety Action Program;
- Criminal record; and
- Vehicle seizure.
If, while driving intoxicated, a person caused a crash or committed another offense, the punishments will reflect those actions as well. A defense attorney can help answer any questions you have about multiple charges.
How Do They Test For BAC?
There are three main ways to test someone’s alcohol levels: breath, blood, and urine. Blood is the most accurate way to test a person’s breath but the most common way used by law enforcement agents is breath because it is the least invasive. However, breathalyzer tests are not always accurate. The results can be skewed by a number of factors including a person’s diet, asthma, or even nearby environment factors such as paint thinner and gasoline. Having a attorney who understands the protocol for breathalyzers can help dismiss your case. Our Manassas drunk driving attorneys are available to represent you in your DUI case.
Do Not Hesitate to Contact Simms Showers LLP Today
A drunk driving record can impact your entire life. Fines along with increased insurance premiums can affect your financial future, losing your driver’s license can impact your ability to transport your family places, and a criminal record can affect your ability to be hired. There is also a social stigma to have a DUI record. If you have been charged with a DUI it is crucial that you contact a skilled attorney today. At Simms Showers LLP we fight to get our client’s charges dismissed or reduced. Contact us today at 703-721-4449 for a free initial consultation.
