Refusing To Take The DUI Chemical Test In Califronia -- What Does It Mean?

If you are pulled over for suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol, you will be asked to perform a number of tests, including a field sobriety test. In some cases, you will also be asked to complete a chemical test. If you choose not to complete the chemical test, you may be facing a number of consequences. It is a good idea to know what to expect before denying or accepting the DUI chemical test.

What if you opt out of the chemical test?

When you accept your driver's license, you also accept that the law requires you to submit to chemical tests for alcohol. You will be offered a blood or breath test if the officer believes you are driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or both. Failure to follow through with the test leads to consequences based on age in the state of California. These guidelines will demonstrate what you might find yourself contending with if you choose not to take the test.

The Consequences

You are likely to lose your driving privileges if you are 21 or over and refuse to take the chemical test. The same applies if you fail to complete or refuse the blood or breath test. If this is your first offense, you may be facing up to one year of suspension of your driver's license. If you have another offense within a 10-year period, you can add another year to that suspension. Any additional offenses within the 10-year period will result in three years without a driver's license.

Drivers Under the Age of 21

If you are under the age of 21 and have been arrested for driving under the influence, it is possible that the consequences will be more stringent. This is because you are not supposed to have any alcohol in your system when you are operating a vehicle, so additional charges may be tacked on for underage drinking.

Hiring a DUI Attorney

If you are pulled over for suspicion of a DUI, it is essential that you hire an attorney from a firm like Hart Law Offices, PC to represent you in court. You do not have to fight a DUI in court on your own. In fact, you shouldn't. Hiring an attorney to look over your case allows you to have the best possible representation. Without this help, you may find yourself facing a pile of evidence that you may not know how to refute. Your attorney will be on your side.