When you’ve been accused of a DUI, your first instinct is to plead your innocence.
Without an attorney by your side to help you stay afloat, you’ll be left alone to navigate some very rough waters. Not only do you have to figure out where your car insurance and medical bills stand, you also have to face up to potential criminal charges that could see you paying a lot of money. The function of a criminal defense attorney is to make sure nothing slips under your radar. This means helping you sign paperwork, meet with officials, and giving you the best possible chance at a fair outcome. Is it worth the money?
Here’s what a Beaverton DUI lawyer can do for you when you’re facing criminal charges.
Drunk Driving Across The Country
One of the most consistent and deadly hazards on American roads is drunk driving. According to recent statistics people will drive drunk almost 300,000 every day, but less than 4,000 will actually be arrested. Additional studies have determined the average drunk driver will drive drunk 80 times before the first arrest, making criminal charges for a DUI very serious, indeed. The state you’re charged in will also give you a good idea as to what to expect. The state of Oregon, for example, prohibits the operation of a motor vehicle by a driver with a .08% BAC.
Common Causes Of Drunk Driving
A major factor that goes into the prevalence of drunk driving are the variety of factors. A lack of awareness concerning the debilitating nature of alcohol — even just one beer — is perhaps the most common, with peer pressure following close behind. Over 10% of licensed drivers are under the age of 21 and are responsible for nearly 20% of all fatal crashes. Criminal charges are determined depending on a variety of factors, as well. These include the BAC (blood alcohol content), a past criminal history, and the severity of the crash, among others.
The Definition Of Distracted Driving
Another element that might come into play is distracted driving. Not only does drunk driving slow down your reaction timing and increase the possibility of a crash, but so too does attempting to multi-task behind the wheel. This can overlap and add another level to address in your case. Distracted driving includes attempting to change the radio dial, eat, drink, talk to someone in the back seat, or text while behind the wheel. Your criminal defense can determine whether you leave paying a fine or being sent to jail.
Confronting A Drunk Driving Charge
There are several steps that come with assessing your criminal charges and determining how to move forward. As explored above, a past criminal history can potentially worsen your sentence. Likewise, a first-time charge can leave you with a revoked license and a heavy fine. Drunk driving doesn’t just involve alcohol, either, but the consumption of illegal drugs or over-the-counter medication. Back in 2012 over 10 million people reported driving under the influence of illicit drugs in the past. You’ll provide a urine sample or a blood test to give better credence to the charge.
What To Expect With A Criminal Defense Attorney
A defense lawyer is your best bet toward a fair and smooth trial. A drunk driving case is unique among car crashes, as it involves not just interrogating witnesses, but taking blood samples or urine samples to supplement the trial. Repeat offenders may have to discuss the necessity of a breathalyzer to reduce the possibility of another occurrence. No matter where your criminal allegations lie, a Beaverton DUI lawyer will help you move forward as confidently as possible. Your first order of business is to contact a law firm and ask for a consultation.
A criminal allegation should be approached as professionally as possible. Reach out to a Beaverton criminal defense attorney and ask how they can help you.
