Using Drunk Driving Attorneys In Pottstown, PA
Getting caught with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent results in a DUI. The law is the same in all fifty states. That is because the federal government mandates the limit, along with open container and repeat offender laws. States that are not in compliance lose some federal highway funds. However, states may pass their own specific DUI laws. For example, Pennsylvania law dictates that sentencing is based on the defendant’s BAC. A BAC of 0.08 to 0.099% is designated a “general impairment.” Next, a BAC between 0.10 to 0.159% is a “high BAC.” The highest level is 0.16% and above. Drivers under 21 cannot have a BAC greater than .02 percent.
There are many experienced Drunk Driving Attorneys in Pottstown PA. David T. Schnarrs has been representing clients in and around Pottstown for years. It is very important to hire an attorney familiar with the jurisdiction of the crime. They know the judges and prosecutors. Additionally, they know which prosecutors are likely to offer a deal. Defendants need to reduce their sentence if possible. That is because the penalties get stiffer on second and third offenses. For instance, someone with the lowest BAC could spend ten days in jail on the third offense. On the other hand, a defendant with a BAC higher than .16 faces a year behind bars.
The Drunk Driving Attorneys in Pottstown PA explain the various laws to clients. Driving in Pennsylvania equals automatic consent to a chemical test for DUI. Refusing to take the test could result in a suspended license. The first refusal calls for a one-year license suspension, while the second and third offenses is 18 months. Other laws require that DUI convictions stay on the record for ten years. Further, ignition interlock devices (IIDs) are required for defendants convicted of two DUI’s within ten years. Individuals convicted of refusing to take a chemical test must also use an IID. DUI is a serious offense no matter where one lives. A conviction means higher insurance premiums and points on the license. Driving while impaired causes loss of life and many injuries. Therefore, people should seek help if they have a drinking problem.
