Driving while impaired (DUI) is a major crime in Regina that can have serious effects. It puts other people’s lives at risk. In Regina, Saskatchewan, a DUI conviction can mean a driver’s license suspension for several different lengths of time based on the details of the crime. An impaired driving lawyer Regina can help you to get back your driver’s license and get through the complicated legal system.
This article will discuss how long you can lose your license after a DUI in Regina and what these penalties mean in a broader sense.
Understanding DUI License Suspensions in Regina
Your license is immediately suspended at the roadside if you are found guilty of DUI in Regina. This means that you can’t drive at all. The driver’s license will be suspended until the court rules on the DUI charges. If the driver pleads or is found guilty in court, the license suspension lasts longer, depending on how bad the crime was.
Factors Influencing License Suspension Duration
In Regina, the length of a DUI license suspension varies on several things, such as:
First Offence
If someone gets a DUI for the first time, their license will be taken away. How long this suspension lasts is based on the BAC amount found during the arrest. If your BAC is between 0.05 and 0.08, you will usually be suspended for at least one year. If your BAC is over 0.08, you will be suspended for three years.
Repeat Offenders
If you get a DUI again, your license will be taken away for a longer time and with harsher penalties. If you get a second crime, your license could be taken away for at least three years. If you get a third offence or more, it could be taken away for life.
Refusing a Breathalyzer Test
BAC values are crucial in deciding how long a person will be suspended. Most of the time, a longer ban means a higher BAC. There can also be serious penalties for refusing to take a breathalyzer test, which is a crime in and of itself. For a first refusal, the license suspension is usually for one year. For future refusals, the suspension lasts longer.
Presence of Passengers Under 16
Driving while drunk with a person under 16 makes the crime worse and lengthens the time you are suspended.
Suspension Periods for DUI Offenses
The minimum suspension period you can not drive after a DUI in Regina is shown in the table below:
Offence | Minimum Suspension Period |
First DUI | 12 months |
Second DUI | 18 months |
Third DUI | 24 months |
Fourth DUI | 3 years |
Fifth DUI | 5 years |
Additional Requirements for License Reinstatement
After the suspension time is over, people who want to get their driver’s license back after being convicted of DUI must meet other requirements, which may include:
Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
People who have never been convicted of a crime or whose blood alcohol level is low may be able to join the Ignition Interlock Program. Drivers must put an IID in their cars for some time. If the driver’s blood alcohol level exceeds the legal limit, this gadget stops the car from starting.
If they put an ignition interlock device in their car, this program lets people keep driving during their suspension time. To ensure the driver is not drunk, this device needs them to give a breath sample before starting the car.
Addiction Evaluation and Treatment
People who have been convicted of DUI are often required to get an addiction evaluation and go through any treatment programs that are suggested.
Education Programs
You must attend a required DUI education class to get your license back. After completing the programs, the convicted can get their driving license back for driving.
Appealing a DUI License Suspension
People whose licenses are going to be taken away because of a DUI can appeal the ruling. Most of the time, the Highway Traffic Board (HTB) hears appeals. The HTB looks at several things, such as the driver’s driving record, the specifics of the DUI crime, and how the suspension will affect the person’s life.
Seeking Legal Assistance
Finding your way around the complicated rules of DUI license suspensions can be hard. It is strongly suggested that you talk to an expert DUI lawyer to make sure that your rights are protected and that your best interests are looked after during the legal process.
A good lawyer can help you determine the best thing to do, walk you through the appeals process, and help you get your license back.
Final Words
If you are caught with a DUI, you will face harsh punishments, such as losing your license for a long time. If you are facing DUI charges, you must know the rules for suspension, any other requirements, and how to fight.
Getting advice and help from an experienced DUI lawyer can be very helpful during the court process. Being proactive and following the law are things that people can do to get their driving rights back and make sure they drive safely and responsibly.