Frequently Asked Questions About DUI
- What is BAC and how is it determined?
- Are the offenders liable for public community service?
- Are offenders’ vehicles impounded?
- What is a Pennsylvania conditional license and occupational limited license?
- What happens if I refuse a breath, blood, or urine test for blood alcohol content?
- What are the implications of the charge? Is it civil or criminal?
- Whom do I approach, when I am charged?
What is BAC and how is it determined?
Blood alcohol content (BAC) or blood alcohol concentration is the concentration of alcohol in blood. It is usually measured as mass per volume. The levels of measurement are determined by the state law and offense for BAC per se is un-graded misdemeanor.
Are the offenders liable for public community service?
Yes, 150 hours of community service could be ordered by the court.
Are offenders’ vehicles impounded?
In Pennsylvania, a vehicle may be impounded after its driver is taken into custody for DUI. If a vehicle is a community danger and it cannot be moved, it may be legally impounded.
What is a Pennsylvania conditional license and occupational limited license?
It is a probationary license that may be available. It allows driving during certain hours of the day. However, there are strict qualification guidelines. Occupational limited licenses are permitted for all first convictions, provided the offender first serves a 60-day license suspension. Driving is allowed for work and rehabilitation, and the number of driving hours a day is limited.
What happens if I refuse a breath, blood, or urine test for blood alcohol content?
If you refuse a test, chances are that you will be taken into custody and brought to a police station. You may be held until someone can pick you up or you have sobered up. In addition, your license may will be suspended for one (1) year automatically suspended and your vehicle may be impounded for a period of time after the incident. However, these penalties seldom apply to refusing to perform field sobriety tests (FSTs), which are the physical coordination tests that a police officer may have you perform.
What are the implications of the charge? Is it civil or criminal?
The administrative side is governed by administrative or civil law and relates to your driver’s license and driving record. The criminal aspect is governed by criminal law and dictates fines, fees, penalties, sentencing, and parole (probation).
Whom do I approach, when I am charged?
You need an attorney who can help you in the initial administrative hearing and any criminal proceedings. David J. Eckle, an experienced attorney in Pennsylvania, can guide you through the laws and procedures for an effective and efficient remedy.
