DUI Arrest Information

Anyone who is pulled over while driving under the influence will get arrested on DUI charges. This may also be referred to with different terms, such as driving while intoxicated, or DWI; operating under the influence, or OUI; and operating while intoxicated, or OWI. Being arrested for a DUI, no matter what term is used, can lead to driving restrictions, license sanctions, fines or jail time.

In most states, the legal limit for blood alcohol content is .08 percent. When a driver gives a result that is more than .20 percent, it is considered an “extreme DUI’. These types of DUIs typically result in license sanctions that are more stringent and can also result in a longer jail or prison sentence, depending on the case at hand. Sentences can be lowered if it is agreed upon by the court that the driver completes an educational course or alcohol treatment program.

Depending on the state where a person is arrested, the immediate penalties vary. Many drivers must spend the night in jail and suffer a suspended license for at least 30 days followed by 60 days of restrictions of driving. Penalties are examined on an annual basis and the penalties can also result in fines, probation and community service requirements. In some cases, however, those who have had a multiple number of arrests and convictions may be required to use an ignition lock.

In addition to becoming a danger to oneself and others, those who are arrested because of a DUI also face higher insurance premiums. Some jobs will not hire those who have DUIs on their records. Although most states have a limit of .08 percent when speaking in terms of the blood alcohol level, others can be as high as .15 or .18 percent. This is simply due to the fact that statistics show the fatalities that are caused by DUIs are mostly from those who have .15 or higher blood alcohol content.