New Drunk Driving Laws Since 2007

The start of 2007 was a witness to just how strict the State of Arizona can be when it comes to first-time DUI offenders. It was in 2007 when they have also introduced a new classification for drunk drivers called the "super extreme". These things suggest that when you get caught for violating their DUI laws in Arizona, you will be faced with some of the toughest penalties in the country.

"Super extreme" DUI offenders are those found to have a blood alcohol content of .20% or higher. If categorized as super extreme, you will have to go through a mandatory punishment of 45 consecutive days of jail time. Being mandatory, the court is not allowed to suspend the said jail time. Most certainly, fines and costs are higher too and the days your license gets suspended is longer.

Even for the first time offenders of the slightest degree of DUI or BAC above .08%, they have toughened up the law by requiring the installation of an ignition interlock device to your motor vehicle. It is a mechanism that works like a breathalyzer. The device basically prevents the engine from being started if the driver's breath alcohol concentration is greater than what is programmed and thus allowed. This is in addition to fines and jail costs, suspension of license, community service and imprisonment.

You can expect to undergo a lot of hassles if you get pulled over and were proven to be driving under the influence. If this happens, one of the most important things you should keep in mind is that you have rights even as an offender. These should not be taken for granted as remembering these rights will help you stay out of more complications. One of these rights is your right to remain silent. As much as possible do not answer any questions until you have your legal counsel by your side. Keep in mind that anything you say can cause your case to become graver. This brings us to another important thing you should do we faced with a DUI case, which is for you to get a DUI lawyer to represent you. Since DUI laws differ from one state to another, it is best to contact a lawyer who is thoroughly familiar with DUI laws in your state. Hire an Arizona DUI lawyer to represent your DUI case that happened in Arizona. This will do you good as the DUI lawyer will be able to help you in a lot of ways.