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In City Hall, Singapore, drunk driving is a serious offence with severe penalties under the Road Traffic Act. The law states that any person who, while driving or in charge of a vehicle, is under the influence of alcohol to such an extent as they are incapable of having proper control of the vehicle, shall be guilty of an offence. Penalties include fines, imprisonment, and disqualification from driving for a period of time.
Drunk driving charges can have significant consequences. There are various legal defenses that an experienced lawyer can use to fight your case, such as questioning the legitimacy of the breathalyzer test or exploring whether proper protocols were followed at checkpoints. Therefore, if you've been charged with a drunk driving offence, it could be beneficial to enlist the help of a lawyer who can guide you through the legalities and potentially mitigate the outcome.
In Singapore, a person is considered legally intoxicated if their blood-alcohol level exceeds 80 milligrams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood. First-time offenders can face a fine between $1,000 to $5,000 and be jailed for up to six months. Repeat offenders may face higher fines, longer jail terms, or even caning. In addition, offenders might also be disqualified from driving for at least a year.
If a person refuses to take a breathalyzer test, they can be prosecuted, and if found guilty, may face similar penalties as if they failed the breathalyzer test.
The Singapore Road traffic act applies to all motorists in Singapore, irrespective of their nationality. Therefore, if you are caught and found guilty of drunk driving, you will be subjected to the same penalties.
Conviction for drunk driving does not directly lead to job loss unless your job requires a valid driving license. However, it may have indirect effects on your employment depending upon your employer's policies and the nature of the charge.
A drunk driving conviction will stay on your record indefinitely. However, for purposes such as car insurance, it is usually taken into account for five years.
Yes, the Traffic Police may require an offender to attend a mandatory rehabilitation programme focusing on the dangers of drink driving.
You can contact the Traffic Police (Singapore Police Force), or legal foundations offering pro bono legal consultations. Additionally, visit Singapore's government website to find plenty of resources on road safety and the legal procedures regarding drunk driving offences.
If you need legal assistance, it is advisable first to contact a legal expert who specializes in traffic laws and drunk driving cases. They can guide you through the legal process, possible defenses, and potential courses of action. If you cannot afford a lawyer, refer to the legal foundations providing pro bono services or seek advice from the Community Legal Clinic.
