Many people probably understand that they can face charges for driving under the influence for operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content level above the legal limit of .08. However, some may not realize that the Oregon legislature is considering expanding the definition of what would qualify a person for a DUI. Under the current law, an intoxicant is defined as alcohol, inhalants, controlled substances or any combination of those three.
18-year-old arrested for alleged drunk driving
Most people need to use their car to get around. Without a car, getting to and from work, school or other obligations can be difficult and time consuming. For those that have been convicted of driving under the influence, life without a driver's license may be a reality. In Oregon, when someone is convicted of drunk driving, that person risks driver's license suspension -- even for a first offense.
Oregon man admits to drunk driving in Facebook status
Social media impacts many aspects of people's everyday lives. Without even thinking people post pictures, status updates and their whereabouts to various social media outlets on a daily basis. However, for one Oregon teen his statement on one of these social media outlets has led to criminal charges.
Oregon man faces DUII charges after accident
When people make the mistake of driving after drinking there can be serious consequences. People who are found guilty of DUII can be sentenced to jail time, probation, fines and counseling. They may also lose their license -- even for just a first-time offense. However, when people who have been driving drunk cause further damage, they can face even more severe punishments and additional criminal charges.
DUI punishments could become more severe in Oregon
When people are arrested and charged with drunk driving, it is important to vigorously defend against all potential DUI charges because of the serious consequences a conviction can have. Currently, DUI charges can result in the loss of a driver's license, fees, mandatory counseling and jail time.
Following dangerous accident, Oregon man charged with DUI
Driving a car can be dangerous. Poor roads, adverse weather conditions and other drivers can all easily cause an accident. However, there are occasions when someone causes an accident after having too much to drink. These drunk-driving accidents can lead to injuries to the driver and to others involved in the accident. Even if someone gets into an accident, police can and will still issue a DUI charge.
3-car crash leads to DUI charges for Oregon man
With the holiday season in midswing people are likely to be heading to parties and other festivities that may include drinking. People may not realize that they have had one too many drinks before getting out onto Oregon roadways. In these situations, people can easily end up with drunk driving charges if they are stopped by police.
Woman charged with DUII after allegedly hitting 2 pedestrians
When someone is caught driving after they have been drinking, a criminal case will likely follow if the person's blood alcohol content exceeds the legal limit of .08. When a person is arrested in Oregon for drunk driving, or driving under the influence of intoxicants, two separate actions follow. One is strictly on the criminal prosecution side. In this action, prosecutors will try to prove that the person was guilty of a DUII and the person could be sentenced to jail time, probation and fines, depending on the circumstances in the case.
After car accident, 14-year-old charged with DUI in Portland
A criminal conviction can follow a person for years after the incident. Some convictions can affect where people can live, limit future job opportunities and include jail or prison sentences. Some convictions, like drunk driving convictions, can result in the loss of a person's driver's license and a negative impact on his or her reputation.
Oregon driver hits school bus; police suspect driver was impaired
People make mistakes while driving all the time. Drivers get distracted and may cause an accident. However, this does not automatically mean that they have committed a crime. Sometimes, police and other law enforcement officials might be quick to assume alcohol or drugs were involved in the accident. These assumptions could lead to drunk driving charges. Despite what law enforcement officers may think at the time of the accident, they need proof of drug or alcohol use in order for a DUI charge to stick in Oregon.
