What is a DUI?

Driving Under the Influence (of alcohol or drugs), also known as a DUI, is an illegal activity that can result in fines, a suspension of the intoxicated driver’s license or even jail time. If a police officer suspects that a driver is operating a vehicle while intoxicated, he or she may force the driver to take a field sobriety test. If the driver does not pass the test, or his or her blood alcohol content is above a certain limit, he or she will be taken into custody.  more

DUI is an abbreviation for "driving under the influence." If a person operates a vehicle after he or she has consumed an amount of alcohol that causes them to become impaired (0.08% BAC or higher) they are driving under the influence. A DUI is against the law and has serious consequences. The Department of Motor Vehicle Code 23152 (a) states that, "It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle.  more

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is usually charged as a misdemeanor where an individual is suspected by the police of having violated one, or both, of the following Vehicle Code sections: