If you are arrested for a DWI or a DUI offense in the state of Alaska, you are probably worried about having to face penalties. The conviction for this offense is based on the results of your blood alcohol content (BAC) test wherein a BAC of 0.08% or higher is considered illegal. The BAC result will determine how much alcohol is present in your bloodstream. Apart from the BAC, a driver can also be convicted of DWI based on his driving pattern, field sobriety tests, along with other circumstantial evidence.
DWI Arrests in Alaska
If you are suspected driving under substance influence, the arresting officer will require you to undergo a BAC test to determine the presence of alcohol or drugs in your body. Whilst you can refuse to take the examination, you might have to face criminal charges for your refusal later on. This is why DWI attorneys do not recommend this course of action even if you are innocent of DWI at the time of arrest. When you are arrested for a DWI case, you may have to face two separate charges. Foremost, a criminal court case will determine the penalties that you will have to pay for your crime as well as your potential jail time. Second, if you refused to undergo a BAC test or if the result showed traces of intoxication, you are likely to face administrative hearing. This case will determine if you can still continue to drive in the state of Alaska or not. You can exercise your right to plead your case however you must immediately request the hearing within seven days of your arrest otherwise you will automatically lose your license by default. As with any other cases, court hearing gives you the chance to present essential materials or evidences that might shorten the period of your license suspension. To boost your chance of winning the case, you will need to work with a DWI lawyer.
Basic Consequences for First Time Offenders
For your first DWI conviction, you can expect to face the following penalties:
For subsequent convictions, you can expect stiffer charges. After being arrested for a second offense, the authorities have the right to confiscate your vehicle.
License Suspensions for Alaska DWI
If you are convicted for DUI, not only that you will face the abovementioned penalties, but you will also lose your driving license.
You may be asked to use a conditional license for a period of time after your license suspension. This will allow you to still drive to and from your workplace or your alcohol education classes. However, you still have to pay the cost to have your license reinstated at $200.
Insurance Consequences
Since you are now considered a high-risk driver after being convicted of a DWI offense, your insurance provider will certainly re-consider your policy. The provider will either drop your coverage or increase your premiums. Bear in mind that you will need to have proof of insurance before you can apply for any restricted licenses, or have your license reinstated. As with any other states, acquiring a new insurance in Alaska following a DWI conviction is definitely a tough challenge.