The Truth About Common DUI Myths
April 12, 2022
Under Pennsylvania DUI laws, driving in a public place while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is prohibited. A person arrested and charged with DUI may be facing severe penalties and other devastating consequences. Unfortunately, there is a lot of misleading information out there surrounding Pennsylvania DUI cases. Due to this, an alleged drunk driver could easily end up in the worst-possible situation without experienced guidance or reliable representation.
At Korey Leslie, Attorney-At-Law, LLC, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal counsel and aggressive representation to clients in their DUI cases. We can investigate every detail of your unique situation thoroughly and outline a strong defense strategy in pursuit of the best possible outcome for your case. Korey Leslie, Attorney-At-Law, LLC is proud to represent clients in York, Camp Hill, Lancaster, and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
Common Myths About DUIs
Knowing what to expect and being able to differentiate facts from fiction can make your DUI case feel more manageable. Below are some common myths and misconceptions about impaired driving in Pennsylvania and a brief explanation of why they're false.
Myth #1: A DUI charge isn't worth fighting.
Fighting your drunk driving charges in Pennsylvania is absolutely worth it. A first drunk driving conviction could potentially result in fines, probation, and other far-reaching consequences. Also, the defendant may be required to participate in alternative programs, including:
An alcohol highway safety school program
Court supervision for a period between 6 and 12 months
A drug and alcohol evaluation and recommended treatment
The devastating nature of these DUI penalties and consequences makes fighting your drunk driving allegations worthwhile.
Myth #2: The charge is so common it isn't serious.
This is a common misconception. A DUI charge is serious and may attract devastating punishment if you are convicted. In addition to hefty fines, imprisonment, and license suspensions, there are other significant, long-term implications of a DUI conviction. These include high auto insurance premiums, driver's license revocation, as well as difficulties in securing housing, loans, future employment, public benefits, government assistance, education, and professional opportunities.
Myth #3: You must submit to a field sobriety test.
On suspicion of driving while under the influence, a police officer may pull your vehicle over and request that you submit to a field sobriety test. Field sobriety tests are a group of three tests – the one-leg stand, the walk-and-turn, and the horizontal gaze test – used by police officers to determine whether a driver is impaired.
Actually, field sobriety tests are not really accurate, and there is no Pennsylvania law that specifically states that a person must submit to a field sobriety test. Similarly, there is no punishment for refusal. While you may want to cooperate with the law enforcement officer that pulled your vehicle over, you should refuse to take a field sobriety test politely and firmly.
Myth #4: I don't have to submit to urine or blood tests.
A blood alcohol test is usually done to measure the level of alcohol in your system. Unlike a field sobriety test, chemical tests – such as breath, urine, or blood tests – are obligatory. There may be civil penalties attached to a chemical test refusal. If you refuse to take a chemical test, your driver's license will be automatically suspended for 12 months. Also, you will need to pay a license restoration fee of between $500 and $2,000.
Myth #5: A DUI will fall off my record in seven years.
This is another common misconception. Unfortunately, a DUI conviction in Pennsylvania won't fall off your record after seven years. In fact, your DUI conviction will appear on your driver's license history, criminal background checks, public records, credit records, and insurance history. A DUI conviction will only fall off your record when expunged or given limited access relief.
Don't Risk Your Future. Call Now.
Fighting your DUI charges in Pennsylvania can help you avoid the severe criminal penalties and social ramifications of a conviction. Regardless, it is never advisable to navigate the criminal justice system without experienced guidance. Therefore, when facing DUI charges, retaining a highly-skilled DUI attorney is crucial to help clear up the misconceptions and build your defense strategy.
At Korey Leslie, Attorney-At-Law, LLC, we can evaluate and investigate all of the surrounding facts of your case, strategize an effective defense, and refute the charges against you with substantial evidence and facts. Our reliable team will offer you the experienced legal guidance, advocacy, and aggressive representation you need to fight your impaired driving allegations. Korey Leslie, Attorney-At-Law, LLC proudly represents clients across York, Camp Hill, Lancaster, and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.