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Drunk driving in Hong Kong, including Admiralty, is taken very seriously. It's considered a criminal offense under the Road Traffic Ordinance (Chapter 374). The law has clearly defined standards for blood alcohol concentration, breath alcohol concentration, and drug impairment. If arrested for such offenses, guilty parties face severe penalties such as fines, imprisonment, and disqualification from driving.
Despite the situation appearing straightforward, several potential issues may need legal representation. A lawyer can help you understand the charges against you, explore possible defenses, and negotiate with prosecutors for a lesser penalty. You might require a lawyer in cases where the sobriety tests were improperly conducted, or if you're a repeat offender with prior convictions. In situations involving a traffic accident or bodily harm due to drunk driving, the need for professional legal counsel becomes even more critical.
In Admiralty, Hong Kong, the legal limit of alcohol for driving is 22 micrograms of alcohol in 100 milliliters of breath, or 50 milligrams of alcohol in 100 milliliters of blood. Exceeding these limits carries severe penalties. For a first-time offense, a fine of HK$25,000 and imprisonment for three years can be given, along with disqualification of driving for not less than two years. Repeat offenders face steeper fines, longer jail time, and may be permanently disqualified from driving.
The penalties include imprisonment, fines, and mandatory driver disqualification. Specific penalties depend on the individual’s degree of intoxication and whether it's a first-time or repeat offense.
Refusal to provide a breath sample when requested by law enforcement is a criminal offence. Failures to comply will yield a fine and a jail term.
Some potential legal defenses might exist depending on the circumstances around arrest and the gathering of evidence. This is where the expertise of a legal professional is of paramount importance.
Not initially. A conviction means mandatory disqualification from driving. Depending on the severity of the offense, it could range from a period of months to a permanent ban.
If drunk driving results in an accident causing harm to others or damage to property, the penalties will be more severe, and you could also face civil litigation from the injured parties.
The Hong Kong Police Force website provides comprehensive information about the Road Traffic Ordinance and other traffic-related laws. Besides, the Transport Department and the Department of Justice of the Hong Kong SAR Government offer various resources and contact information for those seeking further legal advice.
If you find yourself facing a drunk driving charge, your first step should be to seek legal counsel. Legal professionals can provide specific advice tailored to your situation and help you navigate the legal proceedings that may follow. It is also important to cooperate fully with law enforcement and abstain from driving while under investigation or suspension.
