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Understanding A DUI
Written by Timothy Forestts   
Wednesday, 04 November 2009 14:01
It seems like these days almost everyone knows someone who has been arrested for a DUI. The surprising thing is that despite the commonality of the phrase there is a lot of misunderstanding regarding what a DUI actually is.
by RichardMilford


It seems like these days almost everyone knows someone who has been arrested for a DUI. The surprising thing is that despite the commonality of the phrase there is a lot of misunderstanding regarding what a DUI actually is.

DUI is actually an abbreviation for driving under the influence and many falsely assume that is when someone is caught driving drunk. However, that is not just right since a DUI isn't restricted to just the consumption of alcohol. It can also include legal and illegal drugs. Another mistake is to believe that a DUI can only be charged to people driving a car. The truth of the matter is that a DUI can also be given to people who are operating cars, boats, trucks, planes and motorcycles.

DUI is treated as a criminal offense and with it come severe consequences. First off, when you are driving under the influence it is not only your life or well being at risk but other people on the road, also. Also when you take the written test to get your driver's license you are asked questions about it so you have an understanding of the consequences.

Typically, a DUI is determined by your Blood Alcohol Content or BAC. However, that is not the only way that you can be convicted of a DUI. The legal limits vary from state to state so you need to be sure that you are aware of what your local limits are.

If you go behind the wheel of a car be sure you know what other things fall under the DUI category. It is not alcohol alone but also illegal drugs and many prescription ones that warn of "operating machinery". All can lead to a DUI conviction.

One way that you never dreamed you could risk a DUI is from your cough syrup and cold medicine. These often time have an alcohol content and if too much is taken could reap a DUI for you.

Should you be arrested for DUI the consequences you face for it depending on the state you are in as rules vary but they also have some in common such as fines, suspension and restrictions on your license, probation and in some cases jail time.

If you are arrested and charged with DUI then also expect a nasty surprise from your vehicle insurance company. This is because by a conviction you are required to file a SR-22 and once that is done then your insurance company can actually choose to drop you. You are also immediately after filing that form harder to insure and seen as more of a risk than others. That in turn leads to higher premiums or possibly even higher deductibles.

This information is provided solely for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.

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