Receiving a charge of driving under the influence affects many areas of a person’s life, such as their standing in the community and chances of obtaining employment in sectors that involve driving and operating heavy equipment. Because of this, it is important that people know how the process of DUI arrests works.
Here are a couple of things to know about a DUI arrest in Kentucky.
Officers can only pull drivers over with reasonable suspicion
Officers cannot, for example, pull a motorist over on suspicion of DUI simply because they do not like their car. However, there are certain things that a member of law enforcement might observe that would cause them to investigate further into the possibility that someone is driving intoxicated. These include:
- Observing a motorist swerving on the highway
- Seeing a car almost hit the curb or another object
- Witnessing a driver following too closely behind another car
An officer may also give a driver a breath test if they observe alcohol on their breath after pulling them over for an unrelated reason.
The arrest can turn pricey
If the DUI arrest ends with a charge, it will likely come with fines and higher car insurance rates. One mistake on one occasion can put a driver out hundreds or even thousands of dollars. For example, a first DUI offense in Kentucky carries a fine of up to $500.
When drivers are aware of what happens during and after a DUI arrest, they can better know their rights or feel encouraged to avoid the situation altogether.