It’s that time of year again. Office parties, gatherings of friends, New Year’s Eve bashes. Of course, those festivities often include a few drinks. If you want to stay safe and out of trouble this holiday season, don’t drink and drive!
Virginia is especially tough on drunk drivers. Here’s a recap of Virginia’s driving while intoxicated (DWI) laws. (If you’d like more details, see Fairfax DWI Punishments & Penalties.)
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
In Virginia, the law says you are driving under the influence if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is at least 0.08 percent. The same applies if you drive a moped on public highways. The more intoxicated you are, the harsher the penalties will be.
You will at least have to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle the first time you are convicted of a DWI offense. That’s like having a breathalyzer in your dashboard. You have to exhale into it before you can drive. The car won’t start if your BAC is above the programmed limit.
You will also have your license revoked for a year and have to pay a fine. You may face jail time too. You’ll need to complete the Alcohol Safety Action Program to get your license reinstated. Driving with license suspension from a DWI conviction is more serious. For instance, your vehicle can be impounded for up to 90 days if you are caught.
Open Containers
Driving with an open container in the car is another DWI offense. Doing so can get you charged with drinking while operating a motor vehicle. There are a few conditions that must be met. The container must be in the part of the car meant for passengers or anywhere else within the driver’s reach (like a glove box). Some of the container’s contents must be gone, and you must appear to have been drinking.
Alcohol and Minors
Virginia has a no-tolerance policy. If you are under 21, you may not buy or drink alcohol of any kind. You can’t even possess it. You certainly can’t drive while under the influence of alcohol. Do so and you’ll face fines, jail time, and license suspension. Using a fake ID carries similar consequences.
Adults who are over 21 can get into trouble when it comes to under-age drinkers too. You can’t give alcohol to someone under 21. You also can’t drive a car that has children in it while you’re under the influence. Both situations may carry fines, jail time or community service, and license suspensions.
Have you been convicted of a DWI in Fairfax, VA?
Our experienced DWI attorneys offer free consultations. They’ll discuss your case with you in detail. Minimize the impact your DWI conviction has on your life by contacting us at 703-934-0101 today.
