DUIs are among the most serious moving violations, with harsh penalties and long-term consequences that can affect your finances, freedom, and career. If the court accuses you of driving under the influence in Tennessee, achieving the best results depends on understanding the strict laws and consequences of a conviction. Below are a few aspects everyone should know about DUI law in The Volunteer State.

What Are the Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Limits?

Tennessee law automatically considers any driver with a BAC over 0.08% to be too impaired to operate a vehicle safely. However, drivers under 21 years old are subject to a “zero tolerance” policy and face serious penalties if their BAC is 0.02% or higher.

How Do Implied Consent Laws Work?

When you accept a driver’s license in Tennessee, you agree to submit to a BAC test upon request from a police officer. Refusing to give a sample will result in the loss of your driving privilege for a year for a first offense. If you refuse twice in 10 years, the court will suspend your license for two years.

What Are the Penalties?

First Offense

Under Tennessee law, any driver convicted of a DUI must serve a mandatory jail sentence of at least 48 hours for a first offense. However, the court may sentence you to a full year, depending on the circumstances of the case. If convicted, you’ll also lose your driving privileges for one year and pay up to $1,500 in fines.

Enhanced Penalties

If a driver that is under the influence injures anyone, Tennessee law allows prosecutors to file enhanced charges. For instance, causing an accident that injures someone else may be considered vehicular assault, a Class D felony punishable by up to 12 years in prison. An arrest of suspicion of a DUI with a child in the car can also result in enhanced penalties, even if there aren’t any injuries.

If you are facing a DUI charge in the Crossville, TN, area, Kevin R. Bryant Attorney at Law, will focus on you and your needs. This firm knows how overwhelming the situation is, and can provide the aggressive representation and sound legal advice you deserve. Visit the website for more information about their services. Call (931) 787-1004 to arrange a consultation.