Understanding How Driving Can Be Restricted After A DUI

8 June 2016
 Categories: Law, Blog


Will you be going to court for a DUI charge? If so, you're probably wondering what the ramifications will be if you are convicted of the crime. It is a great idea to hire a lawyer, because even if you lose the case, they can help argue on your behalf so that your driving privileges are not completely revoked after a conviction occurs. These are the possible changes that can be implemented to allow you to keep driving.

Restricted License

Your state may give you permission to drive using a restricted driver's license. It will allow you to drive a car, but only for thing such as work, school, church, or for medical reasons. Restrictions can also be placed on where you can drive, which ensures that you are staying within the region for the approved purposes that are allowed.

Many factors go into if you can get a restricted license. For example, the chances are much better if you are only facing your first DUI offense, since repeat offenders could be denied a restricted license. If you're living in a city with great public transportation, like Chicago or New York, your request could be denied simply because there are easy alternatives to get around. Restricted licenses are much more likely to be granted in areas that are rural, where a car is absolutely necessary for living your daily life.

Ignition Interlock

A device called an ignition interlock can be installed on your car by a local mechanic. It is connected directly to the wiring system of your car's starter, and requires you to breathe into the device before you are able to turn on your car. It also may require you to breathe into it while you are driving.

This device works by using a button that activates it prior to starting your car. You are then required to breathe several times into the device that simulates a real breathing pattern.

The interlock ignition device will take samples of your breath and verify if it contains any alcohol. The car will not start if alcohol is detected. Setting off the device with alcohol in your system can even cause the device to lock up completely, causing the need to tow your car to an authorized location to reset the device.

While these restrictions can be quite annoying, they may be your only option to driving after being convicted of a DUI. Use the help of a lawyer to help have these restrictions placed instead of having your license completely revoked. 


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