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Drunk driving, also referred to as Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), is a serious offence in Taunton, as it is throughout the United Kingdom. The law prohibits drivers from operating vehicles while their blood alcohol content (BAC) is above the prescribed limit of 0.08% or 80 milligrams of alcohol for every 100 millilitres of blood. Penalties for drunk driving can include heavy fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education, and in some severe cases, imprisonment.
Legal representation can be vital when you are charged with a drunk driving offence. Lawyers specialised in this field can help you understand complex legal procedures, challenge the breath or blood test results, negotiate for lesser penalties, or even potentially get the charges dismissed based on any improper conduct from law enforcement. Having a lawyer can also be crucial during the sentencing phase if convicted.
The local laws relevant to drunk driving in Taunton, UK conform to the UK-wide Road Traffic Act 1988. Specific to Taunton, like every part of England and Wales, it's illegal to be in charge of a vehicle if your breath alcohol level exceeds 35 micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath, or your blood alcohol level exceeds 80 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood. The 'in charge' aspect not only applies when driving but also if you are stationary but could take control of the vehicle.
Penalties depend on the gravity of the offence and include a ban from driving for at least a year, an unlimited fine, imprisonment for six months, or a combination of these. Repeat offenders or those involved in fatal accidents while drunk driving can face stiffer penalties.
Refusing to take a breathalyzer test is itself a punishable offence, potentially leading to driving disqualification, fines, or imprisonment.
Yes, a drunk driving conviction can significantly increase your insurance premiums, and in some cases, insurers may refuse coverage.
Yes, through your lawyer, you can appeal against the conviction or the severity of the penalties imposed.
Yes, a drunk driving conviction results in a criminal record, which may impact future employment opportunities and international travel.
The UK Government's official website provides comprehensive information on penalties, regulations, and processes related to drunk driving. Multiple charity organizations in the UK offer education and counselling for drunk driving issues, like Alcohol Change UK and Drinkaware. Traffic police departments and legal aid services in Taunton can serve as effective resources too.
If you require legal assistance with a drunk driving issue in Taunton, it's advisable to consult with a lawyer skilled in drunk driving cases. Make sure to provide them with all the facts and any documentation related to your case during your initial consultation. This could include police reports, breath or blood test results, and any potential witness statements. Supporting them with accurate information will increase your chances of a favourable outcome.
