Drink driving charges, often referred to as a “DUI”, can fall into the low range, mid range, or high range categories. Depending on the blood alcohol content reading, and whether it is your first, second or subsequent offence, the penalties can range from a fine, to imprisonment, along with a licence disqualification.

If you get caught drink driving, you should get an experienced DUI lawyer in Perth for the best possible outcome. In this article, we explain some of the potential legal consequences you may face and how our team of drink driving lawyers can help you navigate the legal process.

What are the different types of drink driving charges?

Under the Road Traffic Act 1974, a low range offence is a blood alcohol content reading of between 0.05 grams up to 0.08 grams of alcohol per 100mL of blood. A mid range offence is 0.08 grams up to 0.15 grams. A high range offence is 0.15 grams and above.

It is also an offence to refuse a breath test and to be driving whilst under the influence of prohibited drugs. Repeated high range offending or refusal of breath tests can lead to a permanent licence disqualification. This comes into play after a third offence.

 

Strategies to avoid driving drunk

A number of our clients have driven when not realising they were over the legal limit. You may be over the legal limit even if you do not feel “tipsy” or “drunk”, and even if you have been counting your drinks, and eating and drinking water in between.

The best way to avoid a DUI charge is to simply not drive if you are planning to drink or end up having an unplanned drink. Before you head out, consider one of the following options to get home safely:

  • Organise a designated driver or someone to pick you up.
  • Check out public transport options nearby.
  • Call a taxi or Uber to get you home safely.

Your safety and the safety of others on the road are of the utmost importance, and losing your licence as a result of a DUI charge can cause you unneeded stress and inconvenience.

Many people do not realise how important their driver’s licence is until it is disqualified and they are no longer able to drive for a certain period of time. This can affect your employment, your finances, and your children, amongst other things. There is simply never a good reason to drink and drive.

 

How could a drink driving lawyer help you?

If you have been charged with any type of DUI offence, you should obtain the advice of a DUI lawyer in Perth. Our traffic lawyers will be able to advise you on the penalties available for the charge, and can represent you in court.

Our DUI lawyers can represent you for a plea of guilty, presenting a plea in mitigation on your behalf, in order to obtain the best possible result for you. Depending on which DUI range you fall into, the penalties can have minimum and maximum penalties specified, or only a minimum or a maximum penalty specified. Our DUI lawyers can also advise you on additional things you can do in mitigation, such as traffic offender courses and alcohol counselling.

Our DUI lawyers can also represent you for a plea of not guilty, should you wish to challenge the charge. Learn more about our traffic lawyer services here.