Rhode Island applies more stringent laws and penalties for people arrested of operating under the influence (sometimes called Rhode Island DUI), a term more appropriately used in the state, of either alcohol or drugs. It reflects as a criminal record against you that can affect your employment, your future and your personal freedom. You can be charged of OUI if you are proven guilty based on two instances; first, if you are caught impaired while operating primarily due to the presence of alcohol in your system; second, if your blood alcohol content (BAC) will show .08% or higher in the result.
OUI Arrests in Rhode Island
An arrest for OUI will end you facing two separate charges from different bodies of authority. First, you battle with the criminal courts where jail time, fines, community service and a variety of other punishments are imposed to you. Second, you have to face an administrative hearing against the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicle. This office will determine the suspension of your rights to drive.
In both cases named above, you might want to hire a competent lawyer familiar with the DUI laws of the state of Rhode Island to advise you on the proper steps that you should take regarding the cases filed against you. The DUI attorney will also help you decide whether you need to submit yourself to a BAC test after your arrest, as refusal to do so can lead you to additional criminal penalties.
Basic Consequences for First Time Offenders
Those who are arrested and proven guilty for OUI in the state of Rhode Island for the first time will face the following consequences:
The look-back period for OUI convictions on Rhode Island is five years. In this manner, subsequent OUI offenses within the specified time frame will mean tougher penalties and punishments for repeat offenders.
License Suspension for Rhode Island OUI
With a case also filed by DMV as a result of the OUI arrest, a suspension of your license is also suffered in connection to your conviction, as follows:
Refusal to take the BAC test will give you at least 90 days of license suspension. Meanwhile, the cost to reinstate your license after the suspension has expired is at $50. Apart from that, an ignition interlock device may be attached on your car when you get to renew your license.
Insurance Consequences
With your license back after your suspension, you might want to have your right to drive renewed. However, it will not be as easy than the first time you did it due to insurance concerns. Your conviction with OUI puts you in a difficult position to have yourself covered again by your insurance company. In worst cases, they will drop you completely, or charge you with a hefty premium for an insurance coverage.