It is important for Oregon drivers to understand that they can face various charges and penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These cases often have accompanying traffic violations. Law enforcement is serious about finding drivers who are committing these acts. Still, simply because a person is arrested does not automatically mean they will be convicted. There are strategies that may be effective in formulating a defense and they should be understood from the start.
Driver charged with DUII and more after fleeing police
A 20-year-old man is facing multiple charges related to driving under the influence of intoxicants (DUII), fleeing police and more after an early-morning accident. The incident began at around 4:20 a.m. when the man was behind a police cruiser and following too closely. According to the officer, the driver subsequently committed a series of traffic offenses. When the officer tried to stop him, the driver fled.
As he sped off, he ran several red lights. A short while later, there was the sound of a collision. The driver’s vehicle was found to have crashed into a church. The church was severely damaged, but there were no injuries. The man was taken into custody for reckless driving, DUII, criminal mischief and a felony for trying to elude law enforcement.
Penalties for DUII and criminal charges can be hefty
A driver who registers .08% blood-alcohol concentration will be viewed as intoxicated. Even if the BAC is lower, there can still be DUII charges if there is evidence that the driver had been negatively impacted by alcohol in the system. Depending on the circumstances, a misdemeanor DUII can result in jail time, fines and lost driving privileges. If it is a felony, the consequences will be far worse. When this is compounded by fleeing police, running red lights and causing substantial property damage, the aftermath can be life-changing.
Legal assistance can be essential to fight DUII charges
Not only could the driver lose his or her freedom, but it can harm their future endeavors such as getting certain jobs or being admitted to a school of their choice. To combat these charges, having assistance from those experienced in all areas of criminal defense may be vital. There may be ways to have some of the charges dropped, pursue a plea bargain or even get an acquittal. Prior to saying or doing anything to make the situation worse, it is important have professional guidance from the start.