In the case you are convicted of drunk driving in Alabama, you can serve up to one year in jail or pay a fine ranging from $600 to $2,100 or both and lose your driving privileges. With these severe conviction penalties, you must be careful of what you do or say after a DUI (driving under the influence) arrest. Unfortunately, many individuals make mistakes that make their DUI cases even more painful.
The following mistakes can complicate your case or result in extra criminal charges:
Pleading guilty
The first mistake you can make after an arrest is assuming that a court will conclude you are guilty. Remember that sometimes the tests can give the wrong results, and even if they are correct, you may have various defenses at your disposal.
Ignoring charges
Most people treat drunk driving like other traffic charges that might result in a ticket. However, this is not the case. Apart from hefty fines, you can serve jail time and lose your driving privileges. Also, don’t forget that the conviction will be on your criminal record forever.
Driving without your license
Your license will be revoked or suspended, and you will have to apply for a new one after the revocation period ends. Before that, you should not drive without your license, as this will be a punishable violation.
Making any of the above mistakes can complicate your case and result in extra criminal charges. So, be careful about what you say or do following an arrest and seek legal guidance to protect your rights.