As of 2022, several new laws have been introduced to combat the rising rates of driving under the influence of drugs in California. For example, California DUI laws have recently expanded to include not just drunk driving but drugged driving as well. These new laws are somewhat complex, leading many to seek additional information to expand their understanding of what will happen if they are caught driving drunk or under the influence of drugs.
The best thing to do if you are confused about new California DUI laws in 2022 is to contact a Los Angeles DUI attorney. To get in touch with one of our talented legal professionals, call us now or use the contact form below. Our operators are available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have.
What Are the Primary DUI Laws in California?
VC §23152(a) makes it illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol, while
VC §23152(b) makes it illegal to drive with a BAC of .08% or greater. The new drug-related rules are addressed and included in VC §23152(f).
Can You Be Convicted of a DUI for Drugged Driving?
Yes, Californians are subject to new DUI laws that allow law enforcement to charge drugged drivers with a DUI if they are found to be under the influence of drugs while operating a vehicle. These laws make it illegal for the operator of any motor vehicle to be under the influence of any type of drug, which can affect a person’s ability to safely drive the vehicle. Surprisingly, this also includes prescription drugs that diminish a driver’s ability to effectively operate a vehicle.
Is California Seeing a Rise in Drivers Abusing Alcohol and Drugs While Driving?
The reason new laws have been put in place to regulate drug and alcohol use by vehicle operators is that the state has seen a significant rise in the number of people who are being caught driving under the influence. Oftentimes, they are caught when potentially deadly accidents occur while they are behind the wheel.
The Californian government has a primary goal of protecting the safety and security of the state’s residents. Therefore, they are attempting to enforce laws that will lower the number of DUI-related injuries and fatalities. This problem has been a growing issue for some time, so there is a sense of urgency encouraging legislators to introduce these new laws.
Fortunately, even if you have been charged with a DUI, all is not lost. You can fight the charge and potentially have it dismissed. Though, without a Los Angeles DUI attorney, your case does not stand a chance in most cases. That is why you should enlist the aid of an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible.
Can You Deny a Roadside Field Sobriety Test?
New California laws do not prevent drivers from refusing a roadside field sobriety test. These tests, which are used to determine the sobriety of suspected drivers who may be under the influence, have been traditionally used for decades. This leads many to believe that they do not have the option to refuse the tests.
This is far from true. Drivers have every right to deny the test. In fact, the prime reason people get charged with DUIs in the jurisdiction of California is that they do not have their DUI case reviewed to ensure that there were no legal rights violations with the field sobriety test protocol.
If your field sobriety test was forced upon you or other protocols were broken, your entire DUI case may be dismissed. But you need the help of a DUI attorney to reach that outcome. With that in mind, it makes sense to contact Los Angeles DUI Attorney today.
What Are DUI Penalties in 2022?
Convicted DUI offenders face significant consequences, especially if they offend repeatedly. They are also burdened with long-lasting criminal records that can prevent them from pursuing certain opportunities. These are some current DUI penalties in 2022:
1st-time offenders:
- $1,400 – $2,600 in fines and penalties
- Mandatory 4 days to 6 months jail sentence
- License suspension for 30 days – 10 months
- Required installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
2nd-time offenders:
- Between $1,800 – $2,800 in fines and penalties
- Mandatory jail sentence of 10 days to 1-year
- 2-year license suspension that may be reduced to one year
- Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device installation
3rd-time offenders:
- Between $1,800 – $18,000 in penalties and fines
- 3-year mandatory license suspension
- Mandatory 120 day to 1-year jail sentence
- Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device installation
Are the Rules Different if You Injure Someone While Driving Under the Influence?
If you injure someone while driving under the influence, you can be charged with either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances of your case. Law enforcement will also consider your criminal history when issuing the charge. Penalties range from up to five years of probation, a year in jail, $5,000 in fines, and mandatory participation in 30-month alcohol programs.
To avoid these consequences, you need the help of a DUI lawyer. Do not think you can win without one. Contact Los Angeles DUI Attorney to speak with an experienced lawyer soon.
Where Can You Find a DUI Attorney in California?
There are countless DUI attorneys in California. Though, not all of them are competent. To find an effective lawyer to handle your DUI case, contact Los Angeles DUI Attorney today.
We are available 24/7 and you can call us to get more information now. You can also contact us online using the contact form below.
