Traffic Law DUI/DWI
| License Suspensions for DUI/DWI |
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| Even if a driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) defendant does not receive a sentence of incarceration, it is likely that the defendant's license will be suspended or revoked. Courts are often limited by statute as to whether they can change the suspension terms to limit the impact on a defendant. A license suspension is generally not intended as a punishment but rather as a civil penalty imposed to protect the public. More... |
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| Penalties for DUI/DWI Offenses Involving the Operation of a Boat |
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| The United States Coast Guard and the states cooperate fully in enforcement of laws to remove impaired boat operators from the waters. Both the Coast Guard and every state impose stringent penalties for violating boating under the influence (BUI) laws. More... |
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| Overview of Underage DUI/DWI Laws |
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| The United States Congress passed the National Highway System Designation Act of 1995, which required states to enact and enforce zero-tolerance laws aimed at individuals under the age of 21 (a "juvenile") who have a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.02% or greater while operating a motor vehicle. This federal law required states to pass zero-tolerance legislation as a condition for receiving federal transportation funds. More... |
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| "Involuntary Intoxication" Defense to a DUI Charge |
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| Because driving while intoxicated is a strict liability offense, meaning that it does not require specific intent, the defense of "involuntary intoxication" is often difficult to assert. Involuntary intoxication is a defense to criminal culpability when it is shown that: (1) the accused has exercised no independent judgment or volition in taking the intoxicant; and (2) as a result of his intoxication, the accused did not know that his conduct was wrong or was incapable of conforming his conduct to the requirement of the law he allegedly violated. More... |
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| Auto Insurance for Individuals Convicted of DUI/DWI |
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| Car insurance companies frown upon drunk drivers and enforce serious penalties to those who have been charged with drunk driving, or other alcohol-related driving offenses. Convictions for such offenses will cause many insurance carriers to raise the rates significantly or cancel an insured, either during mid-term or at the end of insurance term. More... |
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