Allegheny County, Pennsylvania is a popular tourist destination in the state of Pennsylvania because it is well-known for its bustling city life, diverse culture, and picturesque surroundings. However, if you find yourself facing a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge while you are in the county, your enjoyment of your trip may soon take a turn for the somber if the charge is brought against you. We will address what you need to know and the steps you should take in order to successfully navigate this hard circumstance in this blog article in the event that you receive a DUI while you are visiting Allegheny County.
Getting Familiar with the DUI Laws in Allegheny County
The regulations against driving under the influence in Allegheny County, as well as the rest of Pennsylvania, are stringent and carry substantial repercussions. Driving under the influence (DUI) refers to the act of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescribed medications. The following is something you ought to be aware of:
1. Limits for Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC):
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit that most drivers are allowed to have in Pennsylvania is 0.08%. The legal limit for commercial drivers is significantly lower, sitting at 0.04%. If you are under 21 years old and your BAC is 0.02% or above, you are breaking the law.
2. Here are the penalties for driving under the influence:
If you are found guilty of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you might face some serious consequences, including jail time, probation, fines, and possibly the suspension of your driver's license. Higher blood alcohol concentrations as well as multiple crimes might result in increasingly severe punishments.
3. Program for Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD):
It's possible that first-time DUI offenders who don't have a record of other significant charges could qualify for the ARD program. If you successfully complete this program, you may be eligible for a reduced sentence as well as the chance to have your record expunged.
The following are the steps you need to do if you receive a DUI while visiting Allegheny County:
1. Get in Touch with an Attorney:
Seek the advice of an attorney as soon as you can. An expert DUI attorney in Allegheny County is able to walk you through the legal procedure, explain your rights, and assist you in constructing a solid defense on your behalf.
2. Know the Charging you are Facing
Learn the specifics of your DUI charges, such as your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), any further charges that may be filed (such as driving recklessly), and the potential consequences.
3. You must show up for all of your court dates:
In some cases, failing to appear in court can lead to further legal complications. You are required to be in court for all scheduled dates, and you should follow your attorney's advice.
4. Always Keep a Record of the Evidence:
Gather any and all evidence that pertains to your case, including but not limited to police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage, if it is available.
5. Give Some Thought to Your Options:
Your attorney will investigate the many possible defenses, consult with the district attorney, and advise you on the most effective next steps to take. There are options available, such as making a request for a decrease in charges or enrolling in the ARD program.
6. Revoked or Suspended License:
You should get ready for the chance that your driver's license will be suspended. In the event that this occurs, you may be qualified for a restricted occupational license, which will enable you to continue driving for employment or other necessary reasons.
7. Learn from Your Mistakes and Missteps
A DUI charge can be a life-altering event. Make the most of this event by viewing it as an opportunity to bring about positive changes in your life, such as getting professional assistance for any difficulties related to substance misuse and committing to making safer decisions in the future.
Conclusion
Visiting Allegheny County and getting a DUI while you're in the area can be a trying and nerve-wracking event. Nevertheless, it is essential to keep in mind that you have legal rights and options available to you. You will be able to navigate through this challenging period and work towards resolving your DUI charge if you seek the advice of a competent DUI attorney, gain a grasp of the legal procedure, and take proactive efforts to handle the matter. Your behavior after receiving a DUI charge can, in the end, have an effect on the results of the case as well as the aftereffects it has on your life going ahead.
About Frank Walker Law
Attorney Frank Walker of Frank Walker Law is a National Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer, and Personal Injury Attorney who has been recognized as a Super Lawyer, a member of the National College for DUI Defense, Best Attorneys in America, Best Law firms of America, America’s Greatest Attorneys, and a Top AVVO Rated attorney, with offices in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and Morgantown West Virginia.
Additionally, you can find Attorney Walker on YouTube, TikTok, the Pittsburgh Attorney Podcast and the West Virginia Attorney Podcast, where he gives legal tips (not advice!) and discusses the pressing legal issues of the day.
If you or someone you love are facing criminal charges or are seriously injured in an accident, contact Attorney Frank Walker immediately at 412-532-6805 (Pittsburgh), 304-413-0179 (Morgantown), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for aggressive and experienced Criminal Defense or Representation in a Civil Case.