Most people have the impression that impaired driving or driving under the influence requires a narrow range of circumstances to occur. As any of the TorontoDUI.com lawyers can explain, these types of charges can be levied in a number of settings. For this reason, it pays to understand what could lead to an arrest and possibly result in a conviction. Here are four basics that you should keep in mind.
It’s Not Just Alcohol
Some think that a DUI or an impaired driving charge means that the arrested party had too much to drink. That’s certainly one example. What you may not realize is that any type of substance that slows the senses could be involved.
For example, the party could have a prescription for medication that causes drowsiness or otherwise slows the response time. Medications for various types of anxiety disorders are a prime example. If the party has taken a dosage that interferes with the ability to safely navigate being in public, the potential for an arrest is real.
The Vehicle Does Not Have to Be Moving or Even Running
If you’ve had too much and feel as if driving isn’t a good idea, you may call someone to pick you up. The temptation to wait in your vehicle may be strong. You might even think it would be fine to settle into the car, turn on the sound system, and listen to some music while waiting.
What you may not know is that it’s possible to be arrested even if the engine is not running and the car isn’t moving. The fact that the keys are in the ignition is enough to indicate that you might decide to drive. In that scenario, a police officer would have grounds to place you under arrest.
There Doesn’t Have to be a Car Involved at All
You may be surprised to know that there doesn’t have to be a car involved at all. You can be charged with impaired driving or driving under the influence if you’re using any type of vehicle. For example, did you know that it’s possible to receive a DUI on a kayak? The idea is that your actions constitute a risk to yourself and others who happen to be nearby. For that reason, you can be arrested and transported to the nearest police station.
Refusing the Breathalyzer Test Will Mean an Arrest
If an officer approaches you and requests a breathalyzer test, the most prudent thing to do is comply. You may find that your blood alcohol level is below the legal limit. If that’s the case, you may receive a warning at best. On the other hand, refusing to take the test would likely mean the officer would arrest you. That could begin a series of consequences that will take some time to unravel.
There’s more that you should learn about driving under the influence or impaired driving. As you learn, commit to not overdoing it when you’re in away from your home. Doing so will allow you to enjoy yourself without ending up in a situation that could affect your life for years.
Photo: Serjan Midili
