No-one likes to consider the idea that they might get stopped by the police – especially if they have indeed committed drink driving offence. The repercussions of such an event could range from a few points on your licence and small fine to a driving ban or even worse. This is why it’s so important to seek help from a specialist motoring law solicitor. In the meantime, understand what to expect should you get pulled over by the police and, as the old adage goes, prepare for the worst; hope for the best.
In the event of an incident, the police will request to see your driving licence, motor insurance and MOT. If you don’t have any of these documents, you have 7 days to take these to a police station.
The police can stop you and request a breath test for the following:
- Suspicion of driving, attempting to drive, or being in charge of a vehicle whilst under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- If you have been involved in a road traffic accident
- If you have committed a moving traffic offence (i.e. driving through a red light)
What does a breath test measure?
This measures the blood alcohol content (BAC). Within England and Wales, the limits are 35 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath.
However, although the legal limit for BAC is 35 micrograms, the police are able to use their discretion if the BAC is 39 micrograms or below. Should the BAC reading result be 40 micrograms or above, this is likely to result in you being charged with an offence.
What happens at the police station?
You may be asked for further evidential tests, including breath tests, blood and urine samples; these cannot be delayed, so you should comply with these.
Every police station has a 24hour duty solicitor, which is free for you to access.
You will likely be released on bail, at which point you should organise a specialist solicitor.
What are the penalties?
• Up to 6 months in prison and up to 14 years for serious offences
• 3-11 penalty points on your licence
• Fined up to £5000, and unlimited for serious offences
• Driving ban for at least 1 year
• Extended driving test to retrieve driving licence
• Employer will see driving conviction
• The USA does not allow anyone with a conviction to visit the country
What should I do?
You can no longer drive; so first ask for someone to collect your car. Failing to do this could prove expensive: you will typically pay £200 to reclaim an impounded vehicle, plus £40 per day.
Contact a drink driving solicitor
- You need a specialist solicitor that is knowledgeable of the system and can provide you with a complete understanding of the options available
- DFR Solicitors are experienced and with proven success – we offer a free consultation, and we’ll guide you through every step of your case
- We have a 95% success rate at defending our clients from driving bans
If you or someone you know requires specialist advice from a motoring law solicitor, call DFR Solicitors today for a free consultation.