A lot can happen after a DUI. Depending on how intoxicated you are, if you have other offenses, and the other circumstances of the event, you could be released that night or be incarcerated.
Regardless, there are certain things you need to do that are in your best interest. You don’t want to accidentally make things worse or come off as non-compliant.
Aside from cooperating fully with the police, keep reading to learn what to do after a DUI.
1. Don’t Refuse the Chemical Blood Alcohol Test
First, you’ll likely be given a chemical blood alcohol test. If you refuse this test, it can be punishable under state law. Possible punishments include losing your license for six months.
The chemical BAC test will give police an accurate depiction of your current blood alcohol level. Just as importantly, this will help them determine what it was at the time of the arrest.
If you refused the breathalyzer initially, they’ll insist upon the chemical test. If you agreed to the breathalyzer at the time of arrest, it will provide further evidence of your intoxication while operating the vehicle.
2. Contact the Towing Company to Get Your Car Back
Assuming you were taken into custody, you’ll need to arrange to have your car picked up by a friend or by the towing company that took it to the impound lot. This is the next step on what to do after a DUI.
Upon your arrest, the police officer likely called whatever towing company they work with to have your vehicle transported from the scene at your expense. You’ll need to settle your bill, provide proof of insurance, and show your driver’s license.
3. Contact a DUI Attorney
Next, it’s time to start thinking about your legal rights. If you feel like you were wrongfully accused or are planning to fight the DUI consequences, you need to contact a DUI lawyer.
They can help you prepare a defense for your court date. For more information, have a look at this professional DUI lawyer.
4. Post Bail
If you’ve been incarcerated, the next step on what to do after a DUI is to arrange for your bail to be posted. You can call a bail bondsman or contact a friend or relative.
The bail amount for a first-time DUI charge can be anywhere from $500 to $2,500, depending on the state. You can pay the minimum fee to the bail bondsman or post the entire amount. You will get this money back after your court hearing.
5. Prepare for Your Court Date
Once you get out of jail, you’ll spend the next several weeks (or longer) preparing for your court hearing. We recommend working with an attorney who can help you mitigate your charges, keep you from making legal mistakes, etc.
During this time, your circumstances may vary in terms of:
- Driving privileges
- Regular breathalyzer tests
- Etc.
It’s imperative not to drink or make any other legal mistakes during this time period.
Do You Need to Know What to Do After a DUI?
If you need more help on what to do after a DUI, contact a lawyer immediately. The best thing you can do right now is to cooperate, be respectful, and prepare for your court date.
Remember, this is a small part of your life. Get through it gracefully so you can move past it.
And if you’re looking for more legal tips or advice, read through some of our other articles before you go. Our blog was created to help people through all of life’s hurdles, obstacles, and valleys.
