Everything That You Need to Know about DUIs in Toronto

Driving under the influence, commonly known as DUI, is a serious offense in Toronto. It is a criminal charge that can have severe consequences for the offender. In recent years, Toronto officials have been cracking down on DUIs, making the penalties stricter in order to deter people from driving while impaired. And while it’s best to avoid ever being in this situation, it’s important to know how to handle this particular situation. To help you out, we will go over everything you need to know about DUIs in Toronto, from the laws and penalties to the steps you should take if you are charged with this offense.

The Laws on DUIs in Toronto

In Toronto, DUIs are governed by the Criminal Code of Canada. According to the law, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in Toronto is 0.08, which means that if a driver’s BAC is higher than this, they can be charged with a DUI.

It is also illegal to refuse to take a breathalyzer test when requested by law enforcement. If a driver refuses to take the test, they can be charged with a separate offense of refusing to provide a breath sample.

Penalties for DUIs in Toronto

The penalties for a DUI conviction in Toronto can be severe. The penalties can vary depending on the circumstances of the offense, such as the offender’s BAC, whether it is their first offense, and whether anyone was injured or killed as a result of the offense.

For a first offense, the penalties can include a fine of up to $1,000, a driver’s license suspension of up to one year, and up to six months in jail. For a second offense, the penalties can include a fine of up to $2,000, a driver’s license suspension of up to three years, and up to nine months in jail. For a third or subsequent offense, the penalties can include a fine of up to $5,000, a driver’s license suspension of up to 10 years, and up to five years in jail. DUI convictions also have other consequences, such as increased insurance rates, difficulty finding employment, and a criminal record that can impact future opportunities.

Steps to Take If Charged with a DUI

If you are charged with a DUI in Toronto, it is important to take immediate action. The first step is to hire a criminal defense lawyer who specializes in DUI cases. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and the legal process, as well as work to build a strong defense on your behalf.

You should also avoid discussing the details of your case with anyone other than your lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you in court, so it is important to be cautious about what you say and to whom you say it.

You should also be prepared to attend court hearings and meetings with your lawyer. It is important to take the charges seriously and to do everything you can to fight them.

Preventing DUIs in Toronto

The best way to avoid a DUI conviction in Toronto is to not drink and drive. If you plan on drinking, make sure to have a designated driver or use public transportation to get home. There are also ride-sharing services available, such as Uber and Lyft, that can provide a safe and reliable way to get home after drinking.

In addition, there are several organizations in Toronto that offer education and support for people struggling with addiction. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol or drug addiction, it is important to seek help as soon as possible.

Conclusion

We hope this discussion has helped further your understanding of DUIs and how to proceed if you’re ever charged with a DUI. By understanding the laws and penalties associated with DUIs, you’ll be able to navigate this situation with little to no trouble.

Our team of Toronto DUI lawyers at Calvin Barry Professional Corporation can help you if you’re dealing with an impaired driving case. With over sixteen years of experience as a Senior Crown Attorney, Calvin Barry brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in Criminal law, specifically in areas such as DUI/Impaired Driving, Domestic Violence and Abuse, and general Criminal Law. You can trust that your case will be managed by a lawyer with an extensive background in these fields. Schedule an appointment today!