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Saturday, November 21, 2009

Understanding DUI

By Richard Milford

Most people have known or heard of someone they know being arrested for DUI. Though everyone has heard the term "DUI" most do not comprehend exactly what it is.

DUI is actually an abbreviation for driving under the influence and many falsely assume that is when someone is caught driving drunk. However, that is not just right since a DUI isn't restricted to just the consumption of alcohol. It can also include legal and illegal drugs. Another mistake is to believe that a DUI can only be charged to people driving a car. The truth of the matter is that a DUI can also be given to people who are operating cars, boats, trucks, planes and motorcycles.

DUI is treated as a criminal offense and with it come severe consequences. First off, when you are driving under the influence it is not only your life or well being at risk but other people on the road, also. Also when you take the written test to get your driver's license you are asked questions about it so you have an understanding of the consequences.

Typically, a DUI is determined by your Blood Alcohol Content or BAC. However, that is not the only way that you can be convicted of a DUI. The legal limits vary from state to state so you need to be sure that you are aware of what your local limits are.

Again though, not only traditional alcoholic beverages can lead to your conviction of DUI. If you are under the influence of illicit drugs, you are impaired and should not be driving. Some prescription drugs indicate that you should not operate machinery while taking them. If you choose to get behind the wheel then you may be putting yourself and others at risk.

However, perhaps the oddest way that you can get a DUI is actually with something that seems nearly harmless. Cough syrups and cold medicines often have alcohol as an ingredient. If you take too much and then get on the road, your blood alcohol level might be above the legal limit.

It is hard to say what the consequences of a DUI are since the states do have their own sets of laws. Common punishments are suspended driver's licenses or restrictions, probation, fines or time in jail.

If you are arrested and charged with DUI then also expect a nasty surprise from your vehicle insurance company. This is because by a conviction you are required to file a SR-22 and once that is done then your insurance company can actually choose to drop you. You are also immediately after filing that form harder to insure and seen as more of a risk than others. That in turn leads to higher premiums or possibly even higher deductibles.

This information is provided solely for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. - 21393

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