Day by day a growing number of drivers are arrested for driving under the influence of either alcohol or drugs. In Wyoming, drunk driving is considered to be a very serious offense as drivers do not only endanger themselves but also anyone who might be a passenger of the vehicle or a bystander nearby.
Wyoming DUI laws target drivers whose blood alcohol content (BAC) is at .08% or higher, as well as drivers who are found to be driving while under the influence of either alcohol or drugs. If you are suspected for DUI, the arresting officer may ask you to take either a series of field sobriety test or a BAC test.
DUI Arrests in Wyoming
A DUI arrest can get tougher all throughout the legal proceedings. For this reason, you should consult a qualified DUI lawyer immediately after your arrest. Your lawyer will represent you in two separate cases including criminal courts and an administrative hearing with the Wyoming Department of Transportation. Your criminal courts case will determine the severity of your consequences such as your jail time, fines, rehabilitation programs, etc. On the other hand, you will have to argue your right to drive in the administrative hearing.
Basic Consequences for First Time Offenders
The sanctions imposed in your DUI case will depend upon a number of factors, such as your previous DUI convictions in Wyoming. If this is your first time DUI offense, you can expect to face the following penalties and punishments:
Wyoming has a DUI look-back period of 5 years. This means that if you commit the same crime within the 5-year period, you will then be considered as a repeat DUI offender. For repeat or subsequent offenses, you can expect to face stricter DUI charges.
Nevertheless, if this is your first offense, you can undergo a diversion program known as “Probation Before Sentencing.” Obviously, when you are under this program, you can be put on probation for six months rather serving the court sentence provided that you attend an alcohol education program and treatment. Once you have completed the program, your DUI conviction on your driving record is cleared.
License Suspension for Wyoming DUI
Apart from facing the jail time, paying hefty fines, and all other charges sentenced by the criminal courts, a DUI arrest can also put your license at risk for suspension wherein you can expect to serve suspension times in the following manner:
Insurance Consequences
Wyoming DUI laws are harsh. Your auto insurance carrier will definitely know about your DUI conviction. Once discovered, the company may respond in one of two typical ways: drop your coverage or drastically increase your insurance premiums. If your policy is canceled, you may need to look for a new insurer to cover you and consequently help you get your license reinstated after serving your suspension.