Have you been picked up for a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) of drugs and/or alcohol in Delaware? If so, you might have then familiarized yourself with the laws that govern the Delaware DUI convictions.
It is unlawful to consume alcoholic beverages while driving a motor vehicle on the highways of Delaware. Failure to adhere with the law can place you in the most uncomfortable position in court. You can be arrested if the police officer observes you driving dangerously or in an impaired manner and that if your behavior obviously indicates consumption drugs or alcohol. This is typically proven through the result of your field sobriety tests, driving pattern, and your physical appearance. Besides the impaired driving, you can also be convicted for DUI if your blood alcohol content is .08% or greater.
DUI Arrests in Delaware
A person who drives under the influence of alcohol or drugs in the state of Delaware is subject to both criminal and administrative penalties. Hearing in the criminal courts will determine your penalties and punishments including your jail time and fines. On the other hand, an administrative hearing in the DMV will define your right to drive again. You are only given 15 days after your arrest to request this hearing otherwise your license will be automatically suspended.
Being an implied consent state, driving in the highways of Delaware implies that you will have to submit yourself for a BAC test once requested. It applies to anyone who drives or operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Refusal to take the chemical test will impose stricter consequences for DUI offense.
Basic Consequences for First Time Offenders
First time DUI offenders in the state of Delaware can face lighter penalties and punishments over subsequent offenders. Nonetheless, the law still mandates first time offenders to face the following charges:
License Suspensions for Delaware DUI
A conviction for a Delaware DUI will have long lasting consequences. In addition to the outlined charges, you can also expect to have your license suspended by the authorities in the following manner:
While serving your suspension, you may still apply for a conditional license. This will enable you to drive to and from work or alcohol treatment classes provided that you are not under the influence of toxins. Another condition for holding a conditional license is the use of the ignition interlock device on your vehicle.
Insurance Consequences
If you happen to be convicted for a DUI case in Delaware, you can have bigger problems with your car insurance company. Your insurance company will either cancel your coverage or that you may have to pay higher subsequent premiums. Even if these consequences might not be favorable to you, there is still a need for you to obtain a coverage so you can drive back again within your state.