New, Tough DUI Penalty Set To Take Effect in Virginia

June 09, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- One of the nation's toughest driving under the influence laws takes effect in Virginia on July 1, 2012. The new law requires all drivers convicted of a DUI to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicles for a minimum of six months while the driver has a restricted driver's license. Ignition interlock devices require a driver to provide a breath sample before the car is started; if alcohol is present in the breath test, the car will not start. The devices also require a driver to provide a breath sample after the car has been started and is being driven. Currently, only drivers convicted of a second or subsequent DUI, or who have a blood-alcohol concentration of .15 percent or higher at the time of arrest are required to install ignition interlocks in their vehicles. In addition to all other penalties for DUI, the new law would require all drivers convicted of a first or subsequent DUI -- chargeable at a BAC of .08 percent or higher -- to install ignition interlock devices in their vehicles. Penalties for a First-Offense DUI Installing an ignition interlock device only compounds the already steep penalties for a first-offense DUI conviction in Virginia, which include: - Up to one year in jail - A fine of up to $2,500 - Loss of driver's license for 12 months (with eligibility for a restricted driver's license, which allows a driver to drive to and from both work and school) - Required involvement in Alcohol Safety Action Program, known as ASAP Virginia lawmakers and prosecutors take DUI very seriously, and so should you. If you have been arrested for suspected DUI, consult with an experienced DUI defense attorney. Article provided by Brisendine, Overand, Buster & Bernstein, P.C. Visit us at www.bobblaw.com --- Press release service and press release distribution provided by http://www.24-7pressrelease.com