A person is never allowed to drive while impaired by drugs or alcohol. If the person isn't thinking clearly, he has no business being in the driver’s seat of a motor vehicle.
The problems come, of course, when an impaired driver doesn't think he is, in fact, impaired.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) refers to operating a motor vehicle when one’s blood alcohol content (BAC) is above the legal limit set by the state or community statutes. These may vary from state to state, but across the country the level ranges from .08 to .10 BAC.
In some states, you don’t even need to be driving. Sitting in a car while intoxicated with the key in the ignition can lead to a charge.
In Kansas and Missouri, a BAC of .02 if you’re under 21, .08 if you 21 and older, and .04 if you are a commercial driver, will get you a DUI.
Conviction can lead to a heavy fine and a mandatory jail sentence, and the driver’s license can be suspended. A driver guilty of multiple offenses may need to have an interlock system linked to a breathalyzer placed in his or her car.
Additionally, in Kansas, you cannot plea bargain a reckless driving charge involving alcohol.
In both Missouri and Kansas, police officers may demand the driver take a breathalyzer or blood test to determine the BAC. Refusal to do so can lead to a revocation of the driver’s license and other consequences.
If you or someone you love has been injured by a drunk driver, our office can help. We work with victims of a drunk driving accident to help you get the compensation you need and deserve after a devastating crash.
Call us today at 816-842-7100 to speak with an attorney that will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Or you can click here to email us and schedule your free consultation.