If you are away from home at college, for the first time in your life, then it stands to reason that there is a lot that you do not know. It should be an exciting time! Unfortunately, if you are subject to a DUI stop, it may turn into a stressful, overwhelming time. DUIs are no joking matter. College is full of a lot of firsts, but most do not want it to include the first DUI stop. Here is what happens at your first DUI stop.
According to the DMV, if you are under the influence of alcohol, you cannot operate any motor vehicle. This includes cars, watercrafts and mopeds on public highways. If your blood alcohol content is .08 or higher, then you are under the influence and legally incapable of operating a vehicle. If you are involved in a crash, do not think that you are off the hook if you make it home. An officer can arrest a person in an accident within three hours of the crash.
If an officer finds an open container in the passenger area, then you may still face DUI charges. You cannot have open containers within the driver’s reach. If you have alcohol in the glove compartment, make sure that it locks. During your first stop, you will have to take a breath test and perform a series of tests. When you drive in Virginia, you provide implied consent for a breath or blood test upon arrest. On your first offense, you have a mandatory $250 fine and the court will revoke your license for a year.
None of the above is considered legal advice. It is for educational purposes only.
