DUI Terminology

Understanding DUI Terms

Absorption Phase: This refers to the timeframe, typically ranging from thirty minutes to three hours, during which the body absorbs alcohol completely.

BAC: An acronym for Blood Alcohol Concentration (sometimes called Blood Alcohol Content), BAC measures the amount of alcohol present in the bloodstream. It forms the foundation for DUI regulations across all jurisdictions.

Breathalyzer/Breathalyser: Used by law enforcement, this device measures a driver’s Blood Alcohol Concentration. It can be either a handheld unit used at the scene or a stationary one located at a police station.

DUI: This stands for Driving Under the Influence, which encompasses impairment from both alcohol and drugs, including legal prescription medications.

DWI: This stands for Driving While Intoxicated or impaired, which includes impairment caused by both drugs and alcohol, including legal prescription medications. DWI is often used interchangeably with DUI.

Field Sobriety Tests: These are standardized assessments conducted by police officers or state troopers to evaluate a driver’s physical and mental coordination as an initial step in identifying DUI. They include balancing on one leg, the horizontal gaze nystagmus test (tracking a pen or object with the eyes only), walking heel-to-toe in a straight line, reciting the alphabet (sometimes in reverse), and touching one’s nose while the head is tilted back.

Ignition Interlock Device/Vehicle Lock: Installed at the driver’s expense, this device has a built-in breathalyzer. If alcohol is detected in the breath test, it prevents the vehicle from starting. This device is also referred to as the “blow and go.”

Implied Consent: This legal concept means that by obtaining a driver’s license, all drivers automatically consent to undergo Blood Alcohol Concentration tests, including chemical and breath tests.

Occupational Limited License: Often called the “bread and butter license” or simply OLL, this temporary license allows the holder to drive to and from work while their regular driver’s license is suspended due to a DUI.

Probable Cause: This is the legal justification a police officer needs to stop a vehicle, potentially leading to questioning the driver and making an arrest. Without probable cause, any evidence obtained against the driver cannot be used in court.

Sobriety Checkpoints: Also known as “safety checkpoints,” these are roadblocks set up by police or state troopers to detect and apprehend drunk or impaired drivers. Every driver passing through a sobriety checkpoint is screened for Driving Under the Influence and other driving impairments.

DUI Information

Navigating DUI Laws in Pennsylvania

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious violation in Pennsylvania, with severe consequences that can profoundly impact lives. The complexity of DUI laws, which are frequently updated, combined with the unique nature of each case, adds to the gravity of the situation. Penalties for DUI convictions are continuously reinforced with each revision.

Determining DUI status relies on BAC (blood alcohol concentration) testing, which includes field sobriety tests and chemical tests of blood, breath, or urine. Adults with a BAC level above 0.08 percent are considered drunk drivers. Refusal to take any of these tests results in separate charges and license suspension. Minors (under 21 years old) with a BAC of 0.02 percent or higher are also deemed drunk drivers, as Pennsylvania enforces a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking.

Furthermore, multiple DUI offenses, DUI-related accidents, and a BAC exceeding 0.10 percent lead to more severe penalties.

Hiring an experienced Kittanning DUI lawyer is crucial, as they have the necessary understanding of the laws and their application to your specific situation. It is essential to secure legal representation promptly after your arrest.

Explore the extensive DUI information provided on the left-hand side of this website. If you are facing DUI charges, the expertise of a skilled and knowledgeable Kittanning criminal attorney is vital. The Logue Law Group has extensive experience defending DUI cases. Serving Kittanning, West Virginia, and Ohio, Logue Law Group is just a phone call away for a consultation at (844) PITT-DUI. Alternatively, you can reach out to us online.