Driving a motor vehicle while intoxicated is called driving under the influence, commonly abbreviated as DUI. Over time, the laws concerning this offense have undergone numerous changes. In certain parts of the country, the legal repercussions associated with such charges have become very strict. The best course of action for anyone who needs clarification about these laws and regulations is to seek the advice of an Indiana DUI lawyer.
Due to the recent changes concerning the aforementioned laws, numerous individuals have found themselves charged with this crime, even though they did not realize they were technically over the limit, and therefore legally intoxicated. For example, an individual who is out on the town for the evening may be able to function in a manner that is entirely sober, and not realize that he or she has exceeded the legal limit with regard to blood alcohol content. This is because this substance affects people in different ways; however, the law takes a one-size-fits-all approach. This is why an individual who is not necessarily impaired can nevertheless be arrested and charged with a crime.
If a police officer is conducting a routine traffic check and believes that a particular driver is impaired, a breathalyzer test is sometimes administered on the scene. The driver may also have to take a blood test or urinalysis in order to determine his or her blood alcohol level. Although it is legal to refuse such tests, the person will usually be arrested either way.
As indicated by its name, a breathalyzer device tests a person’s breath to determine how much alcohol is in his or her system. It is more convenient than the aforementioned tests, but not as accurate. It is a popular field sobriety test.
Some drivers erroneously believe that their blood alcohol level depends on how many drinks they had throughout the evening, but this is not always true. The number of alcoholic drinks a person consumed in any 24-hour period cannot be used as a determining factor concerning whether or not he or she is sober enough to operate a motor vehicle. There are many other factors that play a role in an individual’s level of intoxication.
A person’s tolerance to alcohol depends on many things. For example, how much a person weighs will play a role in how quickly he or she becomes impaired. A woman who weighs approximately 125 pounds may begin to feel tipsy after only a few cocktails or beers. A two hundred pound man may be able to consume 6 or 7 drinks before the effects are felt. Whether or not the person is drinking on a full or empty stomach is a determining factor, as well.
Some motorists start driving home quite innocently, and are completely unaware that their blood alcohol level may be well beyond limits set forth by the law. However, it is essential for drivers to realize that if they are pulled over by a law enforcement officer and a breathalyzer test indicates that they are over the legal limit, a DUI charge will likely ensue.
Such charges are serious, and only an experienced Indiana DUI lawyer is qualified to help those who find themselves in such circumstances. Therefore, it is always wise for motorists to pursue professional assistance immediately if such an event occurs. A skilled attorney who understands legal ramifications in the driver’s state can provide suitable advice and ensure the best possible outcome.
When you are in need of an Indiana dui lawyer has one of the best law firms right here at www.grinerlaw.com. For a consultation with our expert attorney, log on to http://www.grinerlaw.com.