Drunk Driving Defense in RI

Every state in America has drunk driving laws that make it illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Some states refer to this offense as driving under the influence (DUI), driving while intoxicated (DWI), operating under the influence (OUI), or operating a motor vehicle intoxicated (OMVI).

Whatever the name, every variation of drunk driving law in RI makes it illegal to operate a car, truck, motorcycle, or commercial vehicle if:

• Your ability to safely operate the vehicle is impaired by the following substances of conditions:

• Alcohol
• Illegal, over-the-counter, or prescription drugs
• You are intoxicated above established standards, such as blood-alcohol concentration (BAC)

Field tests for Rhode Island drunk driving laws

When a policeman stops a car and suspects the driver of violating RI DUI laws, they conduct a field sobriety test on the driver.

Such tests for RI drunk driving usually involve the driver performing several tasks, such as the following:

• Walking a straight line, heel to toe
• Reciting the alphabet backwards
• A horizontal gaze nystagmus, or eye and penlight, test
• A breathalyzer test

Refusing a chemical test for drunk driving in Rhode Island

Drivers may be asked to submit to a chemical DUI test. However, implied consent laws impose penalties for refusing such a test. The law states that by driving on a public road, you consent to DUI testing when the authorities reasonably suspect you of drunk driving.

Refusing a drunk driving test can carry harsh penalties, such as mandatory license suspension. Usually sanctions for refusing a drunk driving test are harsher than those imposed for failing a DUI test. In fact, in many states, refusing to submit to a chemical test for drunk driving leads to stiffer penalties if you are convicted of drunk driving.

Drunk driving defense in Rhode Island

The Law Offices of Richard S. Humphrey understands that legal troubles are never convenient—especially DUI stops and DUI arrests in RI. In order to make our legal services more helpful and more immediate, we provide an active 24/7 call response service at 401-685-0054. Contact the Law Offices of Richard S. Humphrey today if you need RI DUI help.