Drunk driving offenses are taken very seriously by law enforcement in Louisiana. Police often set up extra patrols to catch drunk drivers during holidays and special occasions. Some police have even started extra patrols on the weekends to crackdown on drunk driving.
As law enforcement increasingly looks for ways to catch drunk driving offenders, it will likely mean more people will be arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated in Louisiana. Being arrested and charged with a DWI can result in serious consequences and penalties if you are convicted.
The consequences of a DWI conviction can vary but most offenders have their driver’s license suspended and may have to serve time in jail depending on their blood alcohol content and if they are a repeat offender. Other consequences of a DWI conviction include having higher car insurance rates and living with the damage to your reputation.
Many individuals charged with a DWI may not be aware of their rights. That is why it is important to consult a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help explain your rights and discuss your options for keeping your license as well as possibly reducing or preventing any time served in jail.
There are ways to challenge the DWI charges as well. A defense attorney can make arguments against the charges using evidence from the night of arrest, including if the police officer has probable cause to pull you over, if the breathalyzer test was properly administered and other evidence.
Facing DWI charges should be taken very seriously as they can result in severe consequences, including jail time. That is why it is important to understand your rights and know what options are available if you are ever in this situation.