4 Steps to Take After Receiving a DUI Charge

It’s understandable to wonder what happens after receiving a DUI. Drivers who have dealt with this situation would not recommend going through it. Hopefully, you never find yourself in this situation. If you do, it’s important to be prepared. Here are four steps to take after receiving a DUI charge.

1. Be Cooperative With Law Enforcement
   Before receiving a DUI charge, a law enforcement officer must make contact with you. It’s understandable to feel a range of emotions during this time. Regardless of what you’re feeling, it’s imperative to be respectful to this officer. Police officers understand that people make mistakes. If you berate an officer, you’re only risking receiving additional charges.
2. Prepare to Spend a Brief Amount of Time in Jail
   After receiving a DUI charge, you’ll be placed under arrest. There’s no way to get out of this situation. Also, an officer will have your vehicle towed away. It’s important to note that this will be at your expense. Unfortunately, you’ll be heading to jail for a brief period. In most cases, you’ll be out of jail after several hours pass.
3. Hire a Lawyer
   Unfortunately, certain individuals drink and drive multiple times throughout their lives. Research shows that drivers with a BAC at or above 0.08% or higher involved in fatal collisions are six times more likely to have a prior DWI conviction than vehicle operators without alcohol in their system. If you have a DUI in your past, it’s imperative to hire a lawyer.
4. Place an Ignition Interlock Device in Your Car
   It’s understandable to feel that your driving future is in jeopardy after receiving a DUI charge. Fortunately, many states are implementing ignition interlock devices in vehicles. Research shows that there are about 150,000 interlock systems in vehicles throughout the United States. In most cases, these devices are used by repeat offenders. One study found that interlocks reduce repeat DUI offenses by about 39%, even after the device is no longer in a vehicle. Considering that, car breathalyzer costs are worth not having to risk losing your license. Many people depend on their vehicles for a wide variety of purposes. To find out more about car breathalyzer costs, contact an ignition interlock provider.

In closing, it’s wise to learn what to do after receiving a DUI charge. This is a scary and stressful time in anyone’s life. You might be wondering, “Will car insurance rates increase after a DUI?” or “Will I be able to drive again?” However, receiving a DUI charge doesn’t always mean losing your ability to drive. Many states are allowing repeat offenders to place car breathalyzers in their vehicles. These devices measure your BAC before and while driving your automobile. Also, you’ll find that car breathalyzer costs are reasonable. After receiving a DUI, especially after your first offense, you should consider using this device to avoid harsher penalties.