If you are a resident of Syracuse or a neighboring area, an arrest for drunk driving will include the loss of your driving privileges.
When will this happen? How can you get your driver’s license back? How will you get around in the meantime?
Types of violations
Driving violations related to alcohol break down into several categories. For example, Driving While Intoxicated, or DWI, is a common violation based on a blood alcohol content level of .08 or above. If charged with Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated, your BAC must be .18 or above.
Facing penalties
The state of New York is serious about keeping drunk drivers off the road. Therefore, the penalties you face are harsh. As a first DWI offender, you are looking at a fine of anywhere from $500 to $1,000 and up to one year in jail. The Department of Motor Vehicles will revoke your driving privileges for a minimum of six months, and the DMV will act on this while your case is pending. If you have a second DWI arrest within 10 years, the charge goes from a misdemeanor to a felony. You can expect a fine amount from $1,000 to $5,000, up to four years behind bars and license revocation for at least a year.
Driver’s license reinstatement
You rely on your vehicle and on having a driver’s license. Without your license, you will have to depend on public transportation or friends and family members to take you back and forth to work, classes, appointments and anywhere else you need to go. However, if you find yourself in this position, explore your legal options without delay. To begin with, you can challenge the suspension of your driver’s license. Also, the court may grant you work-related driving privileges while your case is pending, which would keep you from having to rely on the generosity of others and make it much easier for you to get around.