Many people recognize that drunk driving charges can create a variety of problems in a person’s life, from being sentenced to prison to losing their driving privileges and paying steep fines. However, people may not be aware of some of the other reasons why drunk driving charges are so serious. For example, they may interfere with a parent’s ability to spend time with their child. Whether a parent wishes to dispute a child custody issue or they are thinking about separating from their partner and are worried about who will have custody of the child, these charges can have a major impact on the outcome of such a case.
Beware of drunk driving this summer in Massachusetts
People who are going on vacation often adopt an "anything goes" attitude in their quest to relax and enjoy their trip. While this is a good attitude to have with most things, it shouldn't ever apply to drinking and driving.
How do I know if I have had too much to drink?
Drivers in Massachusetts may think they know when they have had too much to drink before they get behind the wheel. Unfortunately, how you feel does not necessarily mirror what your blood alcohol content is. Different factors determine how alcohol is absorbed and, because of this, many people drive when they should not.
Reviewing some causes of teen drinking and driving
For teenagers across the country, daily life can present a variety of challenges. Some teens may struggle with stress related to school, while others work through disagreements with family members and anxiety about the future. However, some find themselves pulled over for drunk driving and a number of consequences may lie ahead in the wake of DUI charges (difficulty applying for college or a job, losing the ability to drive and even time in prison). Teens and parents struggling with underage DUI charges should handle the case carefully. For now, we will look into some reasons why young people drive drunk.
Legal marijuana use doesn't mean you can drive while you're high
Some people tend to think of marijuana as a harmless drug without any negative side effects. With the changes in Massachusetts' laws regarding marijuana use, it is important to remember that even though you may be able to use the drug without legal repercussions, you aren't free from other laws surrounding it.
Pretrial diversion programs can help resolve DUI cases
Drunk driving convictions can come with some harsh penalties, but there are times when you might not have to deal with the worst sentence possible. Many drunk driving cases are resolved before trial. One option for making this happen is to enter a pretrial diversion program. Even though some people might think these programs are an easy way out of the charge, they aren't.
What is drugged driving in Massachusetts?
Drivers in Massachusetts understand it is against the law to drink and drive, but it seems they are not as clear as to the rules related to taking drugs and driving. The truth is, drugged driving has become a big problem in the state and getting convicted results in the same consequences as drunk driving. While it can be harder to prove someone is driving impaired, law enforcement continues to work on improving testing to make it easier.
Consider your defense options for drunk driving charges
Many different things can occur when you are pulled over because an officer thinks you are driving drunk. You should do your best to remember what happens so that you can discuss the experience with your attorney when you are preparing your defense.
High stress levels and field sobriety tests
There are a number of issues to take into consideration when it comes to field sobriety tests. Our blog has addressed some of the different factors that can adversely affect the results of these tests, such as struggling with balance or abnormal functioning in the brain. Moreover, there are other challenges that can adversely affect the outcome of a field sobriety test, such as extreme stress. If you have been pulled over by a law enforcement official, it is very important for you to attempt to reduce your stress levels. However, this can be a very unnerving experience and many people feel overwhelmed, which may even cause them to fail a field sobriety test.
