Best Drunk Driving Lawyers in Drama

About Drunk Driving Law in Drama, Greece

Drunk driving, known as "οδήγηση υπό την επήρεια αλκοόλ" in Greek law, is a serious criminal offense in Drama, Greece, as it is throughout the country. The law strictly prohibits operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol. The police actively enforce regulations to increase road safety, reduce accidents, and prevent harm to the driver and others. Being charged with drunk driving in Drama can lead to significant legal consequences, including fines, suspension of your driver's license, possible imprisonment, and a lasting impact on your personal and professional life.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

If you are accused of drunk driving in Drama, navigating the legal system can be challenging without professional support. You may need a lawyer in situations such as:

• Being stopped at a police checkpoint and receiving a positive breathalyzer result
• Facing charges after a road accident believed to involve alcohol
• Disagreeing with the testing procedure or contesting the results
• Facing additional penalties due to repeat offenses
• Receiving a notification of license suspension or revocation
• Needing to attend court or administrative hearings regarding driving privileges
• Feeling that your legal rights were violated during the police process
• Fearing a criminal conviction that may affect your job, family, or travel plans

A legal professional ensures you understand your rights, guides you through the court process, and can work to minimize penalties or even have charges dismissed if appropriate.

Local Laws Overview

Drunk driving laws in Drama are governed by the Greek Road Traffic Code and are enforced uniformly throughout the country, with some local enforcement variations. Here are key points relevant to the area:

• Legal Blood Alcohol Limits: For private drivers, the legal limit is 0.50 grams per liter of blood (g/l), while for professional drivers, new drivers (first two years), and motorcyclists, the limit is 0.20 g/l.
• Testing: Police frequently carry out roadside breathalyzer tests. Refusal to take a test is itself an offense that can lead to severe penalties.
• Penalties: Penalties vary depending on blood alcohol level, previous offenses, and whether the offense resulted in an accident. Fines can range from several hundred to several thousand euros, and higher levels of intoxication may result in imprisonment and loss of driving privileges.
• Immediate Actions: In certain cases, your vehicle may be impounded and your license confiscated on the spot.
• Aggravating Circumstances: Higher penalties apply if there is property damage or personal injury, or if minors are present in the vehicle.

Local police, prosecutors, and courts in Drama apply these laws rigorously and expect cooperation from those accused.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the legal alcohol limit for drivers in Drama, Greece?

The general limit is 0.50 grams per liter of blood, but for professional drivers, new drivers with less than two years of experience, and motorcyclists, the limit is 0.20 g/l.

What penalties can I face for drunk driving?

Penalties can include heavy fines, imprisonment, confiscation of your driving license, and vehicle impoundment. The severity increases with higher blood alcohol levels and previous offenses.

Can I refuse to take a breathalyzer test?

Refusing a breathalyzer or blood test is treated as a serious offense, often resulting in penalties similar to or worse than failing the test.

What should I do if I am stopped for a drunk driving check?

Cooperate respectfully with the police, comply with all testing procedures, and avoid making admissions. Seek legal advice as soon as possible if you are charged.

How is blood alcohol content measured?

Police use roadside breathalyzers or sometimes transport you to a medical facility for a blood test.

What happens if I am convicted of drunk driving?

You may receive a criminal record, lose your driving privileges temporarily or permanently, pay large fines, and face possible jail time.

Can a lawyer help me avoid losing my license?

A lawyer can advise on defenses and mitigation, help challenge evidence, and may be able to reduce the period of license suspension or even prevent it in some cases.

What if I need my car for work?

Inform your lawyer. In some cases, it's possible to request special consideration, but Greek law is strict, especially for repeat or high-level offenders.

Are there increased penalties for repeat offenders?

Yes. Repeated offenses typically lead to heavier fines, longer driver license suspensions, and increased likelihood of imprisonment.

Will my insurance be affected?

Yes, insurance companies often increase premiums after a conviction, and may, in some cases, refuse coverage for certain types of incidents.

Additional Resources

• Local Bar Association of Drama (Δικηγορικός Σύλλογος Δράμας): Provides lists of qualified lawyers and legal information.
• Greek Police (Ελληνική Αστυνομία): The main authority for roadside enforcement and information about legal procedures.
• Hellenic Road Safety Institute: Offers educational resources and statistics about road safety in Greece.
• Greek Ministry of Justice: Issues legal updates and maintains records regarding criminal procedures.
• Local government offices in Drama: Can assist with administrative aspects, such as retrieving confiscated licenses.

Next Steps

If you are facing drunk driving charges in Drama, Greece, it is important to act promptly. Here is how to proceed:

1. Do not admit guilt or make statements to authorities until you have consulted a legal professional.
2. Contact a reputable lawyer in Drama with experience in drunk driving and traffic offenses.
3. Gather all documents you received from the police, along with your version of the events, for your lawyer to review.
4. Attend all required hearings or court dates, with legal representation whenever possible.
5. Follow your lawyer’s advice closely to protect your rights and minimize the consequences of the charge.

Remember, legal guidance is vital for securing the best possible outcome after a drunk driving accusation. A criminal conviction or lost license can have a lifelong impact, so do not hesitate to ask for help from qualified professionals in Drama.