Understanding DUI Laws in New Jersey

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is an offense that happens when someone operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It is a criminal offense with possible consequences such as fines, jail time, and license suspension. If you're in this situation, it's essential to find the best DUI lawyer in NJ to handle your case and fight for your rights. A good attorney can work towards giving you the best outcome possible for your case.

DUI Laws in New Jersey

If you are driving in New Jersey, it's imperative to know that driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense that can result in severe legal consequences. To avoid potential legal issues, motorists should ensure they understand and comply with the relevant DUI laws in this state. Here are ten NJ DUI laws you should know be aware of:

Legal BAC Limit

In New Jersey, the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) while driving is 0.08 percent. If you are caught operating a vehicle with a higher BAC than permitted, you will be held accountable and face a Driving Under the Influence charge.

Zero Tolerance For Drivers Under 21

Drivers who are under 21 years of age are strictly prohibited from having any amount of alcohol in their system; otherwise, they will be accused of Driving Under the Influence (DUI).

Implied Consent Law

If you're driving a car in New Jersey and an officer suspects that you are driving under the influence, they are legally allowed to ask you to take either a breathalyzer test or a blood test. 

DUI Checkpoints

Law enforcement in New Jersey has the right to set up DUI checkpoints whenever they please, and if you don't comply with them, you could face legal repercussions.

Penalties For First-time Offenders

A first DUI charge can attract one, several, or all of the following penalties:

•  A fine of between $250 and $400
• A maximum of 30 days in jail
• License suspension for a period of 3 months to 1 year, and  
• Participating in an intoxicated driver resource center program.

Ignition Interlock Devices

If it's your first time receiving a DUI charge in New Jersey, the court may mandate that you install an ignition interlock device (IID). Before you're able to start your car, you'll have to provide a breath sample into the device. If the IID detects alcohol on your breath, it will prevent your car from starting.

Penalties For Second-time Offenders

If you get convicted of a second DUI, you'll likely face a fine between $500-$1,000, serve up to 90 days in jail, have your license suspended for two years, and be required to enroll in an intoxicated driver resource center program.

Penalties For Third-time Offenders

Third-time DUI offenders could be fined up to $1,000, face a maximum of 180 days in jail, have their license suspended for 10 years, and be required to participate in an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center program.

Increased Penalties For High BAC

If the Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) in your system is found to be 0.10 percent or higher, you will likely suffer more severe legal repercussions in the state of New Jersey.

Aggravated DUI

In New Jersey, if you are found driving with a suspended license or if you cause harm or death while driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you will be charged with aggravated DUI. This type of charge comes with even more serious legal repercussions.

Penalties For DUI

Here are the common penalties for DUI:

Fines

The penalty for driving under the influence can vary from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on various factors such as the gravity of the offense, the number of past DUI convictions, and other considerations.

Driver's License Suspension

For a first-time conviction of driving under the influence (DUI), many states may suspend your license for a period ranging from 90 days to one year.

Imprisonment

DUI penalty may involve being sent to prison. The length of the sentence typically depends on the severity of the offense.

Community Service

As a penalty for some DUI convictions, the court may require the completion of community service. The number of hours of community service that must be fulfilled is at the discretion of the judge.

Ignition Interlock Device

In many states, DUI offenders might be required to install an ignition interlock in their car. This gadget checks if the driver has been drinking by measuring their breath and prevents the car from starting if they have.  

If you are facing a DUI charge, it's imperative to seek the help of an experienced DUI lawyer. They can help you navigate the legal system and potentially reduce the penalties you may face.