Sometimes you don’t plan to drink much, maybe just one or two. But plans change. You start talking with friends, laughing, and end up drinking more than you thought. You might still feel okay, like you can drive home just fine. But in Virginia, even one small mistake like that can lead to big problems.
Getting caught driving after drinking is a big deal in Virginia. If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or more, they can charge you with DUI. But honestly, even if it’s lower than that, if the police think you’re not fully okay or seem a bit drunk, they can still stop you and give you a DUI. It doesn’t take much.
Penalties for DUI in Virginia
The penalties can hit hard. For a first-time offense, you might face a fine of at least $250, license suspension for a year, and maybe even jail time. Sounds rough, right? But it gets worse if it’s your second or third offense. The fines get higher, the license suspension lasts longer, and jail time becomes more likely. Sometimes, they even put a device in your car that checks your breath before you can drive. That’s called an ignition interlock device.
Getting a DUI in Virginia also affects your future. It stays on your record. It can mess with your job, raise your car insurance, and make life more stressful than it needs to be.
So, the best thing to do? Don’t drink and drive. Call a cab, use a ride app, or ask a friend. One simple choice can save you a lot of trouble.