5 Myths About Drunk Driving in Michigan

Think you know everything about Michigan’s drunk driving laws? Continue reading to learn what common myths prevent people from fighting DUI charges as aggressively as they should.

Our DUI attorney wants to make sure you have the best criminal defense for your case, which is why we’ve debunked 5 of the most common myths about drunk driving in Michigan.

Drunk Drving Myths

Myth #1: All DUI Cases are the Same

This couldn’t be further from the truth. The circumstances of your case will play a big role in how the court determines fines, time spent behind bars, and community service. For example, a person will have more severe consequences if they were drunk driving with a child in the backseat compared to someone who was driving alone.

You should especially seek the help of our DUI attorney if you:

• Have prior DUI convictions
• Are younger than legal drinking age
• Had passenger(s) in the car under 16 years of age
• Caused property damage
• Caused bodily injury or death
• Had a BAC of 0.17% or higher (super drunk)

Since so many factors affect your fate, it’s important that you hire a DUI lawyer as soon as possible. Our drunk driving attorney will make sure you understand what to expect and how to prepare.

Myth #2: I Can’t Be Charged with Drunk Driving if I’m Below the Legal Limit

This simply is not true. While it’s certainly easier for the prosecution to build their case if your BAC was 0.08% or higher, the officer who arrested you can still testify that they saw you weave in traffic or witnessed other behaviors that would indicate you were too intoxicated to drive. Furthermore, different people have different thresholds for how much alcohol they’re able to drink before getting “tipsy” or drunk. Even if your BAC was below 0.08%, we recommend hiring our drunk driving attorney to help you get the best outcome for your case.

Myth #3: Refusing a Breathalyzer is the Best Choice

If you showed obvious signs of being drunk behind the wheel, an officer can request a warrant to obtain a blood test. A blood test is much more accurate than a breathalyzer and will stand up in court when introduced as evidence. If this describes your situation, don’t hesitate to call our DUI attorney as soon as possible to represent your case.

Myth #4: Buzzed Driving ≠ Drunk Driving

If you feel any effects from alcohol, you’re better off calling a cab or getting a ride with a sober friend. While having one or two drinks may not put you over the legal limit, it can reduce your reaction time while driving. Short of taking a breathalyzer, it can also be hard to determine if you’ve had too much to drink. Don’t risk being arrested for drunk driving if you’re not sure.

Paying money for a cab is much less expensive than what you’ll have to pay in fines for drunk driving. Not to mention, the time it takes to collect your car in the morning when you’re sober is much less than what you’d have to potentially spend doing community service or being behind bars.

Myth #5: The First DUI Conviction isn’t Serious

Any DUI conviction should be taken seriously, especially if it’s your first. While one DUI could be seen as a lapse of judgment, any DUI’s that follow show a pattern of substance abuse. If you or a loved one were recently arrested for driving under the influence, it’s important you seek help as soon as possible to stop a bad situation from getting worse. Our DUI attorney can help you navigate the legal system so you can get the best outcome for your case.

Attorney Jerry Lykins fights aggressively to defend his clients’ rights. Our DUI attorney takes the time to meet with you one-on-one to discuss your case so you better understand your next steps. To request a consultation with our drunk driving attorney in Grand Rapids MI, call or text Lykins Law at (616) 540-0443.