After a long, stressful day at work, relaxing with friends and a few drinks feels good. The good-natured camaraderie keeps you laughing as the tension melts away.
The last thing you expect is for those few after-work drinks to become a DUI.
The consequences of a DUI in South Dakota
Suppose a driver is convicted of a DUI in South Dakota due to a blood alcohol content of 0.08%. In that case, it is considered a Class 1 misdemeanor. Not only can they have their license revoked for at least thirty days, but they may also receive a $2,000 fine and one-year imprisonment in the county jail. If the BAC is 0.17% or higher, additional penalties can include mandatory treatment for alcohol abuse.
Aside from the immediate legal penalties, a DUI conviction in South Dakota can have long-term consequences. It can significantly impact your personal and professional life. A DUI conviction can lead to increased insurance premiums and may even make it difficult to find coverage. It can also make it challenging to find employment, especially in fields that require driving.
It’s always best to make arrangements if you plan to have a few drinks with colleagues; however, sometimes, these are impromptu gatherings. If you find yourself at a happy hour and realize you’ve had too much to drink, consider the following:
- To get home safely, utilize services like Uber, Lyft, or a local taxi service.
- If you’re out with friends and one of them is sober, ask if they can give you a ride home.
- Consuming food and water can help your body metabolize alcohol more efficiently, potentially reducing your level of intoxication, though it won’t make you sober immediately.
If you find yourself facing a DUI charge, it’s essential to work with someone who can advocate on your behalf. This will help ensure a more positive outcome in your case.