In the UK, the current legal alcohol limit for drivers is 80mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood. If you have a higher level of blood-alcohol concentration, you may face a DUI charge. There is no defined amount of alcohol that will equate to 80mg per 100ml of blood because it depends on how the body absorbs alcohol, weight and size, how fast it is consumed, how much you have eaten before drinking, etc. A very rough guideline, however, is approximately 2 pints of regular beer. Studies demonstrate that people’s driving can be impaired well before reaching the legal limit, so it is advisable not to drink to the legal limit just because you think you can. For more detailed information on one particular study, click here.
If you have a DUI charge, it is advisable that you speak to one of our criminal solicitors. Often times, depending on the circumstances of your case, with the help of a solicitor, you may be able to plea bargain and plead guilty to a lesser offence. Exploring this option is of great benefit as a DUI conviction can have serious implications on your life.
The potential punishments and chance of plea bargaining the DUI charge down will depend on if this is a first offense and whether there are other aggravating factors to consider for punishment. If it is a second offense, jail time will certainly be imposed, and it is likely that you will have to attend drug and alcohol rehabilitation and/or education programs. DUI convictions could cause you to lose not only your driver’s license, but depending on what profession you practice, your license to continue to practice may be suspended or discontinued.
The best way to avoid a charge of driving under the influence is to always be prepared with a backup plan. If you know that you are going to be drinking, designate a driver who will abstain from consuming alcohol. Give them the keys prior to drinking so that there is no chance of you getting behind the wheel after. Another option to consider is arranging for a taxi or calling someone to pick you up. Do whatever it takes to avoid a DUI charge because drink driving is never worth it.
Disclaimer