Drunk driving laws can be complicated to understand, and there are plenty of myths surrounding what happens when you get a DUI. Our Grand Rapids DUI attorneys want to be clear about what is and isn’t true when it comes to the laws surrounding drunk driving offenses. Here are 5 commonly-held myths about receiving a DUI in Michigan, as well as the real truths you need to know.
1. Myth: All DUI Cases Are Similar
This couldn’t be further from the truth. The circumstances of your DUI case will play a big role in how the court determines fines, time spent behind bars, and community service. For example, a person will have more severe consequences if they were with a child in the backseat compared to someone who was driving alone.
You should especially seek the help of ourDUI attorney if you:
- Have prior DUI convictions
- Are younger than legal drinking age
- Had passenger(s) in the car under 16 years of age
- Caused property damage
- Caused bodily injury or death
- Had a BAC of 0.17% or higher
Since so many factors affect your fate, it’s important that you hire a DUI lawyer as soon as possible. Our drunk driving attorney will make sure you understand what to expect and how to prepare.
2. Myth: If You’re Below the Legal Limit, You’re Okay
This is simply not true. While it’s certainly easier for the prosecution to build their case if your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) was 0.08% or higher, the officer who arrested you can still testify that they saw you weaving in traffic or witnessed other behaviors that would indicate you were too intoxicated to drive.
Furthermore, different people have different thresholds for how much alcohol they’re able to drink before getting “tipsy” or drunk. Even if your BAC was below 0.08%, we recommend hiring our attorney to help you get the best outcome for your case.
3. Myth: You Should Always Refuse the Breathalyzer
If you showed obvious signs of being drunk behind the wheel, an officer can request a warrant to obtain a blood test. A blood test is much more accurate than a breathalyzer and will stand up in court when introduced as evidence. If this describes your situation, don’t hesitate to call ourDUI attorney as soon as possible to represent your case.
4. Myth: Buzzed Driving is Different than Drunk Driving
If you feel any effects from alcohol, you’re better off calling a cab or getting a ride with a sober friend. While having one or two drinks may not put you over the legal limit, it can reduce your reaction time while driving. Short of taking a breathalyzer, it can also be hard to determine if you’ve had too much to drink. Don’t risk being arrested for drunk driving if you’re not sure.
Paying money for a cab is much less expensive than what you’ll have to pay in fines for drunk driving. Not to mention, the time it takes to collect your car in the morning when you’re sober is much less than what you’d have to potentially spend doing community service or being behind bars.
5. Myth: Your First DUI Conviction Isn’t a Big Deal
Any DUIconviction should be taken seriously, especially if it’s your first. While one DUIcould be seen as a lapse of judgment, any DUI’s that follow show a pattern of substance abuse. If you or a loved one were recently arrested for driving under the influence, it’s important you seek help as soon as possible to stop a bad situation from getting worse. OurDUI attorney can help you navigate the legal system so you can get the best outcome for your case.
Request a Consultation
OurGrand Rapids, MI DUI lawyers are always willing to guide you through the legal process when you’ve been charged with a DUI. To request a consultation with one of our Michigan DUI attorneys, callBeurkens Law at (616) 459-5344.
Related Blog Posts
What Should You Do If You Are Pulled Over For DUI?
Interview Questions to Ask Your DUI Attorney
How a DUI Can Impact Your Life
Recovering Michigan Driver’s License
This blog post has been updated.
