Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense that can lead to severe consequences. In California, it is illegal to operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. However, there are also maximum limits for other substances such as drugs that can impair driving. If you have been charged with DUI in California, it's essential to understand the maximum limits and penalties associated with this offense. In this blog post, we will discuss these topics and how an attorney can help you navigate through this legal process.

As mentioned earlier, the maximum BAC level allowed when driving in California is 0.08%. However, if you are a commercial driver operating a commercial vehicle or under 21 years of age, your BAC level must be below 0.04% and 0.01%, respectively. It's important to note that even if your BAC is below these levels, you can still be charged with DUI if you show signs of impairment.

For drugs other than alcohol, there are no specific limits established by law in California. Instead, officers use drug recognition experts (DREs) trained to evaluate drivers who may be impaired by drugs or medication.

The penalties for DUI in California depend on various factors such as prior convictions and whether anyone was injured during the incident. For first-time offenders with no injuries involved, penalties include fines ranging from $390-$1,000 and up to six months in jail. Additionally, license suspension for four months is mandatory.

For repeat offenders or those involved in accidents resulting in injuries or death, penalties may include longer jail time (up to four years), higher fines ($5,000 or more), mandatory rehabilitation programs, and permanent license revocation.

If you have been charged with DUI in California, it's crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. An experienced DUI attorney can help you understand the charges against you, evaluate the evidence presented by the prosecution, and build a strong defense strategy.

An attorney can also negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties and represent you in court. In some cases, an attorney can help you avoid jail time or license suspension by negotiating for alternative sentencing options such as community service or house arrest.

Driving under the influence is a serious offense that can lead to severe consequences. If you are facing DUI charges in California, it's essential to understand the maximum limits for alcohol and drugs and the penalties associated with this offense. An experienced DUI attorney can guide you through this legal process and help you achieve the best possible outcome. Remember that prevention is always better than cure; if you plan on drinking or using drugs, it's best to avoid driving altogether. Stay safe on the roads!