Are you facing a DUI? Need legal advice or assistance to navigate through the legal mess of criminal charges? Operating a motor vehicle in Pennsylvania with a blood alcohol concentration level (BAC) of 0.08% or higher can be charged with driving under the influence.
The DUI Charge
Law enforcement officials must have reasonable suspicion to arrest a motorist of driving under the influence, which is why they conduct field sobriety tests. By failing or refusing a field sobriety test, you may be legally placed under arrest and must submit to a chemical test to measure your BAC. In addition, the arresting officer will take note of your speech, statements, mannerisms, and behavior throughout the incident, all of which can and will be used against you in criminal process.
There are two common tests used to verify BAC. The breath test, or “breathalyzer”, is most widely used by law enforcement officers; it uses fuel cell technology to detect the presence of alcohol in a breath sample. Drivers that produce breath tests of 0.08% or higher can be charged with DUI. Even blowing a lower number, such as 0.06%, can result in a DUI charge if the law enforcement officer believes that alcohol impaired driving abilities. Refusing a breath test can lead to an additional one year license suspension.**
Experience on your side
Knowing your rights and responsibilities makes a DUI charge less frightening. An experienced DUI lawyer will look for any reason to throw out the evidence and reduce or acquit the defendant of penalties.
Hire a lawyer with experience in successfully navigating DUI charges from dismissing charges to working with convicted drivers to restore driving privileges. Attorney Joseph Horowitz serves the Pittsburgh region to help drivers understand their rights and receive proper defense in the court of law. If you’ve been arrested for DUI, call Mr. Horowitz at (412) 276-5896 to request a consultation and develop your defense strategy.
