Impaired driving can have a devastating and far-reaching impact on your social and economic life. Typical consequences of a DUI case may include jail time, fines, and loss of your driving license. The best way to deal with DUI charges is to consult a criminal lawyer so that you know your options. People who have not been charged with DUI should learn about DUI basics to keep themselves out of situations where they might violate the law and face legal consequences.
What Constitutes as a DUI?
Driving under the influence or impaired driving involves the over 80 rule. When it comes to DUI laws, Alberta has some of the toughest penalties which include vehicle impoundment and license suspension. While the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is 0.08, BAC between 0.05 to 0.08 can lead to legal consequences.
If you have more than 80 mg of alcohol per 100 mL of blood, you are legally impaired and shouldn’t drive. Regardless of your gender, weight, or alcohol tolerance, you’re likely to be charged with DUI if you’re driving impaired. People who drink more without showing the effects of alcohol consumption can still be charged.
While it’s difficult to determine the exact amount of alcohol a person can consume without becoming impaired, you might show signs of being impaired after consuming a single drink. Therefore, if you have had one drink or more, let someone else drive or wait for your body to process the alcohol and get rid of the after effects. It will help you ensure a safe driving experience and minimize your chances of being charged with driving over 80.
People often think that consuming alcohol for an hour prior to driving is safe and doesn’t constitute DUI. This may only be true if you consume a limited amount of alcohol. Drinking too much and waiting for an hour before you drive might not change your condition. When you consume enough alcohol to put yourself over 80, your body will take approximately six hours or more to get rid of alcohol provided that you don’t drink any further.
DUI Myths
People often believe that only a small percentage of road accidents are caused due to impaired driving. So far as stats are concerned, alcohol consumption is directly or indirectly a factor in around 30% of road accidents in Canada. Another myth is that it’s possible to fool a breathalyzer test by using simple tricks like chewing gum. Breathalyzer tests are meant to measure alcohol in the body. So, make sure you’re under the legal limit before your drive.
Consult A DUI Lawyer
Impaired driving in Alberta and across Canada is a serious criminal charge that can have a serious financial impact on your life. To get your charges dropped, you need to consult and hire a good DUI lawyer. Before hiring a lawyer, verify that they have an impeccable track record of defending people charged with DUI.
About Slaferek Callihoo
Slaferek Callihoo is one of the most reputable legal firms which specializes in DUI offences in Edmonton. We make sure you receive the best legal guidance in order to defend yourself against criminal charges. Contact us to schedule a free consultation!
