Per Louisiana DUI law it is illegal to drive or be in actual physical control of a motor vehicle if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08% or higher. Even if your BAC is below the legal limit you could still be arrested for a DUI case based on your impaired driving due to alcohol consumption.
DWI Arrests in Louisiana
No matter if you are a first time offender or a repeat offender, your DUI conviction in the state of Louisiana triggers two cases: one in the criminal court and another with the Department of Public Safety and Corrections. The former will sentence your penalties and punishments caused by your DUI offense, while you will argue with the latter to save your right to drive in spite of your arrest and conviction. To help you prepare for your appeal, you have to seek legal advice from a qualified DUI lawyer. You are only given 15 days to request this hearing therefore you need to immediately consult your DUI attorney. Failure to make the request promptly and correctly will automatically suspend your license. Upon arrest, you have to undergo a BAC test to determine the level of toxins in your body. You may refuse the chemical examination, but doing so will only increase the severity of your charges.
Consequences for First Time Offenders
Louisiana DUI is a serious offense with many potential penalties and punishments. First time offenders can expect to serve the following consequences:
If you render community service and participate in an alcohol abuse treatment and driver training program the penalties and punishments can decrease to its minimum level as commanded by law. Habitual offenses and refusal to take the BAC test carry tougher penalties for DUI offenders.
License Suspensions for Louisiana DWI
In addition to the criminal penalties discussed above, the administrative hearing with the Department of Public Safety and Corrections will determine how long will your license be suspended in consideration of your DUI convictions in the past 10 years.
A hardship license, though, can give you the privilege to drive to and from work or school after serving a portion of your suspension time.
Insurance Consequences
Regardless whether your DWI conviction in Louisiana is your first or you’ve been charged with multiple DWI cases, you sure can expect a drastic change on your insurance coverage. Your insurance carrier may either drop your coverage or radically increase your premiums once you are charged with DWI conviction in Louisiana. If you’re dropped, you will certainly have a hard time looking for a new carrier due to your DWI case.