After a night out, you may wish to drive yourself home; however, this decision can often be costly. If you are pulled over with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, you can be charged with a DUI and face severe legal penalties. Our Indianapolis DUI defense attorneys at Harwell Gray Legal Counsel LLC share what you should know before getting behind the wheel after a night out.
WHAT IS DUI?
Driving under the influence — often referred to as DUI — is a Class C misdemeanor for those with their first charge and a BAC between 0.08% and 0.15%. With subsequent charges, a higher BAC, or other enhancement, you can be charged with a Class A misdemeanor or a felony.
SIGNS YOU ARE TOO DRUNK TO DRIVE
Before getting behind the wheel, you should look for signs that you are too drunk to drive home. While it may be inconvenient to leave your car in the parking lot and need to retrieve your card in the morning, it is much safer than drinking and driving.
You Have a “Buzzed” Feeling
Feeling “buzzed” or tipsy is a good sign that you have most likely enjoyed a few beverages. The “buzzed” feeling is often described as “warm” or “cozy,” and you may become more talkative or in tune with your emotions. If you are feeling “buzzed,” your reaction time may increase, which can be extremely dangerous when driving.
You Have Poor Coordination
If you notice that you are dropping objects, wobbling or swaying, or feel otherwise impaired, you may be intoxicated past the legal limit.
You Are Slurring Your Words
If you notice that you are slurring your words, you should not get behind the wheel. Slurred speech is a strong indication that you have drank too much to drive. If you are pulled over, the police may notice you slurring your words, which can be a cause for a DUI arrest.
You Lose Count of Your Drinks
While losing count of your drinks could be forgetfulness, it can also indicate diminished short-term memory due to alcohol consumption. The average woman can drink 1-2 drinks, and the average man can drink 2-3 drinks before their BAC reaches the legal limit, so if you have lost count of the number of drinks you have had, you may be over this limit without knowing it.
INDIANAPOLIS DUI DEFENSE ATTORNEYS
At Harwell Gray Legal Counsel LLC, we understand that DUI charges can be complicated, especially if you are charged with more than one crime at the time of the DUI. Our DUI defense attorneys are dedicated to helping you fight your charges and advocating for your freedom.
Were you pulled over for a DUI? Schedule a consultation with our DUI defense attorneys by calling 317-344-9085 to learn more about how we can help you fight your charges.