Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
In Burnaby, Canada, driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWI) are grave offenses. These terms refer to the criminal offence of operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or other drugs, including recreational drugs and drugs prescribed by physicians. If convicted, individuals would face serious penalties, including fines, mandatory enrolment in education or treatment programs, and potential imprisonment. In some cases, the provincial government may also impose a driving prohibition.
If you find yourself in a situation where you're charged with a DUI or DWI, it's essential to seek legal representation. A competent lawyer would advocate your case by challenging the prosecution’s evidence and exploring avenues for defense. They can also ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process. For instance, lawyers can challenge the validity of breathalyzer results, scrutinize the legality of the traffic stop, or question the procedures followed during your case. Additionally, a lawyer can guide you through the legal system and explain the possible strategies and consequences of your choices.
In Burnaby and the rest of Canada, it's illegal to operate a motor vehicle, boat, aircraft, or railway equipment with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher. As of December 2018, the new laws also make it illegal to drive with some types of drugs in your blood in excess of set limits. Moreover, it's illegal to drive within two hours of being over the legal limit. Penalties for these offenses vary depending on the severity of the case and whether it's a repeat offense. For first-time offenders, penalties can range from a minimum $1,000 fine to life imprisonment in severe cases involving bodily harm or death.
BAC stands for blood alcohol concentration, a measure of the amount of alcohol in a person's blood and expressed in percentage points.
Under Canadian law, refusing to comply with a valid demand for a breathalyzer test can lead to a criminal charge with penalties similar to a DUI offense.
This depends on the specifics of your case and the province’s laws. Generally, driving suspensions or bans are part of the penalties for DUI or DWI offenses.
Yes, in many jurisdictions the term DUI and DWI are used interchangeably and mean the same thing. Both involve driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Penalties for repeat DUI or DWI offenses significantly increase. They can include longer periods of imprisonment, larger fines, and longer driving prohibitions.
No, you should avoid driving with any amount of alcohol or drugs in your body to ensure safety as even a small amount can be illegal for certain categories of drivers.
Yes. You have the right to defend yourself, but it's advisable to consider getting legal advice or representation due to the complexities of such cases.
Causing an accident while under the influence can result in more severe penalties, such as longer prison time, especially if the accident caused injuries or death.
A lawyer can provide you with advice, represent you in court, and challenge the legality of the evidence against you among other benefits.
Yes. A DUI or DWI conviction will appear on your criminal record, which can impact future employment opportunities, travel plans, and even your ability to obtain insurance.
The Government of Canada has multiple resources for understanding DUI & DWI law, including the Canadian Criminal Code and the Canadian Department of Justice. For provincial information, The British Columbia Ministry of Justice and Attorney General may also be consulted. Always ensure that the information you are getting is up to date and reliable.
If you face DUI or DWI charges or think charges may be pending, you should immediately consult a lawyer. In many cases, legal advocates can guide you on securing your rights and put forward a robust defense. Ensure that your chosen lawyer has experience dealing with DUI or DWI cases, as this field of law is complicated and specialized.
