DUI With Blood Alcohol Over .16%

In Pittsburgh, DUI offenses are treated with utmost seriousness by law enforcement agencies, prioritizing the safety of the roads, just as they do throughout the United States. If charged with driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, it is imperative to promptly seek the assistance of a skilled Pittsburgh criminal defense attorney.

In Pittsburgh, a three-tier system is followed, wherein a BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) of 0.16% or above can have severe consequences, including lengthy license suspension, hefty fines, and even imprisonment. A BAC of 0.16% is considered the highest level of impairment within this system. During such circumstances, it becomes crucial to turn to a trusted Pittsburgh DUI lawyer with a proven track record.

What do You Need to Know? BAC Testing

When suspected of DUI, law enforcement will typically require you to undergo BAC testing, which may involve a Breathalyzer test or the collection of blood and urine samples to measure the alcohol concentration in your body. A BAC level of 0.08% or higher can result in DUI charges, while a BAC of 0.16% or more is considered a grave offense. It is important to note that these tests must be conducted within 2 hours of arrest, and refusal to cooperate can lead to a license suspension of one year or longer.

Punishment on Conviction

• First Offense – For the first offense, the punishment includes imprisonment for a period of three days to six months, fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, a one-year suspension of the driver’s license, mandatory enrollment in a treatment program, and attendance at the Alcohol Highway Safety School.
• Second Offense – If you are arrested with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.16% or higher for the second time, the penalties are imprisonment for 90 days to five years, an 18-month suspension of the driver’s license, fines between $1,500 and $10,000, mandatory use of an Ignition Interlock Device for one year, attendance at the Alcohol Highway Safety School, and possible enrollment in a treatment program.
• Third Offense – A third offense results in imprisonment for one to five years, fines ranging from $2,500 to $10,000, an 18-month suspension of the driver’s license, mandatory use of an Ignition Interlock Device for one year, possible enrollment in a treatment program, and compliance with the court’s orders.

It is important to note that the punishment can be even more severe if the DUI offense involves bodily injuries, death, or property damage, as you can also be sued in civil court.

How to Deal with the Police?

• Remain calm and cooperative if you are being arrested.
• Refrain from admitting that you have been drinking.
• Avoid making any statements without the presence of your Pittsburgh DUI lawyer

Defense Options

• Challenge the legality of the stop and the police’s failure to follow proper procedures.
• Assert that you were not the driver and that you were not impaired.
• Contest the accuracy and validity of the tests conducted within the required time frame.
• Question the reliability of the testing equipment, which may have produced erroneous results.

How Would a Lawyer Defend You

When facing a DUI case with a BAC of 0.16% or higher, the expertise and skills of your lawyer can be the decisive factor between conviction and acquittal. A competent Pittsburgh criminal attorney will diligently challenge all the evidence presented by the prosecution, aiming to weaken their case against you. In the event that the charges hold up in court, your attorney will explore every available avenue to mitigate your punishment and reduce fines.

For a complimentary consultation with a proficient DUI defense attorney in Pittsburgh, don’t hesitate to reach out to us online today or by calling (844) PITT-DUI. Our services extend to Ohio, West Virginia, Pittsburgh, and its surrounding areas.

At Logue Law Group, our attorneys possess extensive training in all aspects of DUI law, ensuring comprehensive knowledge of arrest procedures and BAC testing.