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Drunk driving, also known as 'drink driving' in New Zealand, is a serious offence in Auckland, governed under the Land Transport Act 1998. The law prohibits individuals from operating a motor vehicle if their blood alcohol level exceeds specified limits. It is considered a criminal offense and can result in serious penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and license disqualification.
If you've been charged with drunk driving, you may require legal help to navigate the complex legal system. Having a lawyer can help you understand your rights and the possible legal consequences of the charge. A lawyer can provide you with advice on plea options and potential defenses, represent you in court, and negotiate on your behalf to potentially reduce any fines or penalties you may face.
Under the Land Transport Act in New Zealand, it’s illegal to drive with a breath alcohol level of over 250 micrograms per litre, or a blood alcohol level of over 50 milligrams per 100 millilitres for drivers aged 20 years and over. For people under 20, there’s a zero-tolerance policy in place. If caught drink driving, penalties can include on-the-spot fines, demerit points, disqualification from driving, or even imprisonment, based on the severity of the offense.
The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers aged 20 years and over is 50 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood. For drivers under the age of 20, there is a zero tolerance policy in effect.
Penalties for drunk driving can range from fines and demerit points to disqualification from driving and imprisonment. The severity of the sentence usually depends on the blood alcohol level and any previous offending.
While no outcome can be guaranteed, a lawyer can potentially help reduce your sentence by providing effective representation in court, presenting mitigating factors, and negotiating on your behalf.
If you're charged with drunk driving, it's important to seek legal advice as soon as possible. A lawyer can guide you through the legal process, represent you in court, and help protect your rights.
Refusing a breath or blood test when requested by a police officer is a serious offense and can result in penalties similar to those for drunk driving itself.
Useful resources to understand drunk driving and related laws in New Zealand include the New Zealand Police, New Zealand Transport Agency, and your local Citizen Advice Bureau. Various local law firms and legal aid services can provide legal advice and representation.
If you need legal assistance for a drunk driving charge, contact a local law firm or legal aid service immediately. They will able to guide you on how to proceed, discuss your legal options, and provide representation if required. It's important to be honest with your legal advisor and provide all the relevant information related to your case.
