Introduction:
Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is a serious crime that carries stiff penalties in Maine. If you are convicted of a DUI, you might be facing jail time, hefty fines, and the suspension of your driver’s license. Understanding the state’s maine dui laws might help ensure that you remain safe on the roads and avoid any legal trouble. Here is an summary of what you need to learn about maine oui laws.
Maine’s Legal Drinking Limit
In Maine, it is illegal for drivers 21 years of age and over to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of .08% or higher. For drivers under 21 years old, the legal drinking limit is much lower—just .02%. Drivers which are found operating a car with either of these BAC levels will undoubtedly be charged with Driving Beneath the Influence (DUI). Additionally, all drivers must submit to chemical tests if requested by law enforcement officers after being arrested for suspected drunk driving. Refusal to submit to such tests can result in additional penalties and fines.
Consequences for DUIs
The effects for DUIs depend on whether or not it’s your first offense. For first-time offenders, they might face as much as 364 days in jail and fines which range from $500-$2,000. Furthermore, their driver’s license will also be suspended for approximately 90 days. For second-time offenders within 10 years of these first offense, they can face 5 years in prison and fines between $1,000-$4,000 along with having their license suspended for up to 2 years. When it comes to third-time offenders within 10 years of their previous convictions, they could face 10 years in prison with fines ranging from $2,000-$5,000 while having their license suspended for 6 years.
Implied Consent Law
Under Maine’s implied consent law drivers are required by law to submit to chemical tests when asked by law enforcement officers following an arrest made on suspicion of drunk driving. Refusal to take such tests may result in additional penalties including increased punishment if convicted in addition to suspension of one’s driver’s license for 3 years even if she or he was found not guilty at trial because of lack of evidence obtained from chemical testing results.Furthermore, refusal can also be used against someone during trial if he/she refuses before being given Miranda warnings and again after being informed by police officers concerning the implied consent law.
Conclusion:
Understanding the DUI laws in Maine is vital so you can stay safe on the roads and avoid any legal trouble should you ever get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or drugs. The legal BAC limit is .08% or higher for anyone 21 and over whilst it drops down significantly just .02% for individuals who are younger than 21. Additionally, refusing chemical tests can lead to additional penalties even when one isn’t guilty because of not enough evidence obtained through testing results which supports explain why one must comply with such requests when asked by police force officers following an arrest made under suspicion of drunk driving based on implied consent laws in this state. When it comes time getting behind the wheel remember not merely is it illegal but it may run you dearly too!