Overview Of DUI Laws In Oklahoma
An Oklahoma DUI (aka DWI) can have a major impact on life. You may lose your license and face jail time and extensive fines. A criminal record can also complicate other parts of life, jeopardizing employment and educational opportunities. It is imperative to know what is at stake when facing DUI charges.
Here at The Law Office of Jeff Contreras, we understand the pressure and stress that go hand in hand with DUI charges. Founder and criminal defense lawyer Jeff Contreras has provided trusted defense services for nearly 40 years in the McAlester region, offering free consultations that allow the accused to explore defense options with no further commitment. For trusted guidance from a McAlester DUI attorney, call today.
The Legal Limit
The first important point to note is that the legal limit – your BAC as determined by a breathalyzer or another test – is not the same for everyone. It is .08% for most drivers, but it drops to .04% for commercial drivers and 0% for underage drivers.
What Is Implied Consent?
Implied consent laws require all Oklahoma drivers to submit to a breath test if stopped for suspected drunk driving. This means that by driving a motor vehicle, you automatically consent to sobriety testing upon suspicion of drunk driving. Refusing the test can lead to immediate arrest and license suspension.
Common Penalties For DUI Charges In Oklahoma
Even a first-offense DUI can lead to harsh consequences, with the penalties typically increasing with subsequent convictions.
- First offense: Six-month license suspension, 10 days to 12 months in jail
- Second offense (in 10 years): One-year license suspension, up to five years behind bars
- Third offense: Three-year license suspension, one to 10 years possible jail time
Penalties also escalate for an extremely high BAC – .015% or more – or when there are aggravating factors, like having children in the car.
Call For A Free Consultation
If you are facing DUI charges in McAlester, Oklahoma, or anywhere across McIntosh, Pittsburg or Atoka counties, call our team at 918-420-9125 or fill out our online contact form to set up your free consultation and begin protecting your future.