Overview of Drunk Driving

Each U.S. state has its own set of drunk-driving laws, and in some states, like Pennsylvania, drunk driving is a crime, while in others, like New Jersey, it is classified as a traffic offense. While drunk-driving laws do differ among the states, there are certain concepts and features common to most states’ drunk-driving jurisprudence. Basically, as we all know, operating a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol and/or drugs to a degree that impairs a person’s judgment and ability to drive safely is a serious offense. Both criminal and civil penalties for drunk driving can be harsh and often include:

• Loss or suspension of license
• Large fines
• Substance-abuse treatment
• Jail or prison time
• Community service
• Restitution
• Criminal record
• Restrictive probationary license programs, including ignition interlock devices and Cinderella licenses

In addition, the social stigma and effect on your career may have lifelong negative consequences.

If you have been stopped for, arrested for or charged with drunk driving, it is in your best interest to discuss your options and rights as soon as possible with an attorney who has experience handling drunk-driving cases, like one from the Palkovitz Law Office Traffic Law Center in White Oak and downtown Pittsburgh. Drunk-driving law is complex and the guidance of a skilled and knowledgeable lawyer can make a significant difference in a defendant’s experience and in the outcome of his or her case.

Effective strategies against DUI and Drunk Driving

Experienced attorneys can protect you from the negative impact that comes with a conviction for DUI/DWI. We are those attorneys. We are the Palkovitz Law Office Traffic Law Center and our criminal defense team is available to help people in Pittsburgh and western Pennsylvania.