Are Roadblocks Reducing DUIs?
May 22, 2020
In Virginia DUI roadblocks, sometimes called sobriety checkpoints, are a major part of the strategy to prevent drunk driving. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other respected organizations argue that DUI roadblocks are effective law enforcement tools against drunk driving. The United States Supreme Court has upheld the legality of DUI roadblocks. If you have been charged with driving under the influence as a result of a DUI roadblock, you should contact Rudolphi Law instead of trying to fight the charge yourself.
While DUI roadblocks are legal, the police do not have unlimited authority. Federal and state law significantly restrict how police operate sobriety checkpoints. If you have been charged with driving under the influence following a stop at a sobriety checkpoint, DUI Lawyers in Fairfax VA can help determine whether the police violated your rights and how to fight the charge based on police misconduct.
Virginia imposes substantial penalties on drivers who are convicted of driving under the influence. For a first offense you face license suspension of one year, a fine of up to $2,500.00, up to 12 months in jail, and use of interlock device on your vehicle as a condition of having restricted driving privileges; the penalties for subsequent offenses are more severe (See DUI Penalty Chart). If you face these harsh penalties, you should rely on Rudolphi Law to devise and implement a plan of action instead of fighting the charge yourself.
The consequences of losing your driver’s license and spending time in jail can be severe. Many people lose their jobs after they lose their licenses and lose their friends after spending time in jail. DUI Lawyers in Fairfax VA can help reduce the risk that you will face those consequences.
DUI roadblocks are a fact of life in Virginia. If you are charged with driving under the influence, it is in your best interest to contact Rudolphi Law.