A DUI charge can lead to hefty fines and penalties, jail time, suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, employment difficulties, and increased insurance rates. However, there are so many myths about DUI charges in Nashville, TN. Unfortunately, some people believe these myths.
Believing in these myths could lead to serious consequences. It is best to not believe these myths. Why? They can hurt your DUI defense. You, therefore, need to understand the realities of DUI laws in Nashville. Below, our DUI defense lawyers are going to debunk common DUI myths and provide accurate information.
Myth 1: You Can’t Get a DUI During the Day
Yes, you can get a DUI during the day. If you drive under the influence of alcohol during the day, you will get arrested and charged for DUI in Nashville. Unfortunately, some people drink during the drive. And most of these people have been arrested for DUI. It is true that you can get a DUI, regardless of the time of day.
Myth 2: You Have to Be Driving to Be Charged with a DUI
Some people believe they cannot be charged with a DUI if they were not driving a vehicle. However, you can be charged with a DUI, even if you were not actively driving a vehicle. If, for example, you were in control of a vehicle, you could be charged without driving. The police could arrest you because they believe that you were intoxicated.
If you are intoxicated and getting into your car, the police may arrest for DUI even if you haven’t even put the keys into the ignition. Also, you can be arrested if you’re legally intoxicated and just sleeping in your car. This is why it is best to hire a skilled DUI defense lawyer to represent you.
Myth 3: You Can Beat a Breathalyzer Test with Mouthwash or Breath Mints
This is not true. Mouthwash or breath mints cannot help you beat a breathalyzer test. In fact, mouthwash and breath mints contain traces of active ingredients, including alcohol. A breathalyzer test is a test to measure your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC). That is why mouthwash and breath mints can increase your BAC level. Which, in turn, complicates your DUI defense.
Myth 4: Refusing a Breathalyzer Test Means You Won’t Get a DUI
You can legally refuse a breathalyzer test. However, refusing a breathalyzer test does not mean you won’t get a DUI charge. Tennessee has an implied consent law. So, you have consented to a BAC test by driving. Refusing a breathalyzer test can complicate your DUI case and even your DUI defense strategy. And police officers may still have other evidence to charge you with a DUI.
Myth 5: You Can’t Get a DUI if Your BAC is Below 0.08%
This is false. You can still get a DUI if your BAC is below 0.08%. That is why you are not safe if your BAC is below 0.08%. Alcohol can impair your judgment, slow your reaction time, and even reduce your concentration. So, the police officers will only need to show that your capacity to drive safely was compromised due to alcohol consumption.
Myth 6: You Can’t Be Arrested for a DUI on Private Property
You can get arrested for a DUI on private property. DUI laws apply to properties that are open to the public. Tennessee’s DUI law prohibits driving on any road or street while under the influence of alcohol. So, if you are caught driving under the influence of alcohol on your own property, you can be arrested, and will need an experienced DUI defense attorney to fight for you.
Myth 7: Only Alcohol Consumption Leads to DUI Charges
One of the most common myths is only alcohol consumption can lead to DUI charges. This is false. Other drugs can result in DUI charges in Nashville. Tennessee’s DUI laws cover the use of drugs.
Therefore, over-the-counter drugs, illegal substances, and prescription medications can lead to DUI charges. This is because these drugs can lead to impaired driving. Understanding this and being upfront and honest with your DUI defense lawyer is the best way to ensure you have the best chance to win in your DUI case.
Myth 8: DUI Charges Always Result in Conviction
DUI charges do not always result in conviction. A lot of people have successfully fought DUI charges in Nashville. For example, you can negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecutor. Why? A plea bargain can reduce your potential sentences and even eliminate some of the charges.
In addition, there are several scenarios where DUI charges can be dismissed. Having strong legal representation can help get your DUI charges dismissed. It is, therefore, possible to beat those charges with a sound DUI defense.
Myth 9: Drinking Coffee or Taking a Cold Shower Sobers You Up Quickly
This is also false. Drinking coffee or taking a cold shower cannot make you sober. Coffee and cold showers can make you feel refreshed and awake. However, they cannot lower your BAC levels. Why? Because caffeine does not affect how fast the body metabolizes alcohol.
Myth 10: You Don’t Need a Lawyer for a DUI Charge
Yes, you need a lawyer for a DUI charge. Tennessee’s DUI laws can be extremely complicated. If you want to avoid a harsher sentence, you need to hire a skilled lawyer. A lawyer will help you in obtaining documents, witnesses, or evidence that could help your case and provides the most robust DUI defense.
Having strong legal representation can even reduce your stress and save you money. They understand the potential penalties for DUI and way to defend against them.
Contact Nash Law Firm to Help You With Experienced and Knowledgeable DUI Defense
A DUI charge is a serious criminal offense. However, these myths can make people underestimate the importance of strong legal representation. If you have been charged with driving under the influence in Nashville, the penalties can include a revoked driver’s license, penalty fees, higher insurance rates, and even prison time.
So, if you are facing DUI charges, you need to seek strong legal representation and a comprehensive DUI defense strategy. Nash Law Firm understands the challenges of fighting a DUI charge in Nashville. We can help you understand your rights and options. We will analyze your case, challenge evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf. We can work out a plea deal or get your charges dismissed.
Contact Nash Law Firm today by calling 615-NASH-LAW to schedule a FREE initial consultation with our knowledgeable lawyers.
