There’s nothing wrong with someone of legal age to enjoy a few alcoholic beverages here and there. Many people would agree that, in moderation, consuming alcohol is a great way to loosen up and relax after a long week of work, provides a fun setting to catch up with friends or meet new ones, and can overall create fun environments when that’s what you’re looking for. However, getting behind the wheel of a motor vehicle while under the influence can inevitably be one of the worst decisions of your life. New Jersey’s Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Laws are set in place to keep you and the people around you safe, and they’re no laughing matter. 

Why DUI Laws Exist

Even consuming a small amount of alcohol will have several effects on a person’s behavior, state of mind, functioning skills and more. While it may seem to make you energized and lively, alcohol is actually a central nervous system depressant, meaning it impairs the brain’s ability to function and slows it down. This causes slower reaction times, drowsiness and poor decision making. This is why it can be incredibly dangerous to drive and operate a motor vehicle while impaired. It becomes much more likely that someone driving drunk will make a crucial mistake that could lead to long-lasting, problematic and especially tragic consequences. 

Understanding New Jersey’s DUI Laws

The state of New Jersey defines being impaired as having a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or greater. It is at this point when a person’s reaction time would be slower and their vision, judgment and alertness hindered. However, even if you are below this BAC threshold, driving with any amount of alcohol in your system can still get you into trouble. The state has the ability to convict you if your driving is negatively impacted, no matter your BAC level. Also, while the law may seem alcohol focused, it also includes driving while under the influence of any type of narcotic or hallucinogenic drug. There are a few other things that the law touches on overall, like letting someone else drive while intoxicated, driving with an open container and of course, driving intoxicated while under the age of 21. Though, simply put, it is very easy to understand how to stay out of trouble: don’t get behind the wheel while impaired!

Legal Consequences of a DUI

There are several things that can and will happen when facing a DUI conviction. Some factors will cause slightly different consequences, like someone’s exact BAC level being below or above .10/.15 percent. In general, though, this is what it looks like:

1st Offense

• A fine up to $400.
• Imprisonment of up to 30 days.
• Driver’s license forfeiture until ignition interlock is installed. Interlock required for 3 months.
• A minimum of six hours a day for two consecutive days in an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center.
• An automobile insurance surcharge of $1,000 a year for 3 years.

2nd Offense

• A fine up to $1,000.
• Imprisonment of at least 48 consecutive hours, and up to 90 days.
• Minimum 1-year and up to 2-year license suspension.
• Completion of evaluation, referral and program requirements of the IDRC.
• 30 days of community service.
• An automobile insurance surcharge of $1,000 a year for 3 years.
• Installation of an ignition interlock device for a period of license suspension and 2 years to 4 years after license restoration.

3rd Offense

• A fine of $1,000.
• Imprisonment of 180 days except the court may lower such term for each day, not exceeding 90 days, served in a drug or alcohol inpatient rehabilitation program approved by IDRC.
• 8 year license suspension.
• 30 days of community service.
• Completion of evaluation, referral and program requirements of the IDRC.
• An automobile insurance surcharge of $1,500 a year for 3 years.
• Installation of an ignition interlock device for a period of license suspension and 2 years to 4 years after license restoration.

As previously stated, there are several factors that can change and affect the outcomes of DUI convictions, and there are even more consequences not listed above. You can gain a full understanding of everything around New Jersey’s drunk driving laws here. 

Mistakes Happen – Count on Mark Catanzaro for Help

It is safe to say that the majority of people understand the dangers and risks associated with driving under the influence. However, nobody is perfect, and people are bound to make mistakes. We understand these principles here at the Law Offices of Mark W. Catanzaro, and are dedicated to providing legal help to those with good hearts who unfortunately made a bad decision. We get it, and we want to help. Even if you are charged, there are still options to help reduce consequences and make the burdens easier on you. It is NOT the end of the world. Don’t let one bad night out turn into something you live with for the rest of your life. There are ways to battle it. Get in touch with us today, and we’ll ensure the best outcomes for those facing charges.