3 Crucial Pointers on DUIs in Toronto You Must Know
Driving under the influence (DUI), also called impaired driving, is a serious offence in Toronto, Canada. If caught driving impaired, you could face severe legal consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment. You must be familiar with relevant laws and regulations regarding DUI in Toronto. Here are three crucial pointers you must know:
The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limit
The legal limit for drivers in Toronto is 0.08. You’ll be charged with DUI when caught with a BAC level of 0.08 or higher. However, if you are a novice driver (with a G1, G2, M1, or M2 license), you are not allowed alcohol in your system while driving. You will face severe consequences if caught with any BAC level above zero, including license suspension, fines, and mandatory alcohol education programs.
Plus, it’s not only alcohol that can impair your driving. You can also be charged if caught driving under the influence of drugs like prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and illegal substances. So knowing the effects of any medication or substance is crucial before getting behind the wheel. If you are unsure about the effects of a particular drug, you should consult with your doctor or pharmacist before driving.
The Consequences
Impaired driving in Toronto can be severe and significantly impact your life. If caught under the influence, you will be charged with a criminal offence and may face fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment. The consequences will depend on several factors, including your BAC level, your driving history, and whether you caused any accidents or injuries while driving under the influence.
For your first offence, you could face a maximum fine of $1,000, a license suspension for up to a year, and mandatory participation in an alcohol education program.
For subsequent offences, the consequences become more severe, and you could face a longer license suspension, higher fines, and even imprisonment. Additionally, this kind of conviction can have a long-lasting impact on your life, including your employment opportunities, ability to travel to other countries, and reputation in the community.
A Lawyer
Hiring a DUI lawyer is essential if you are charged with impaired driving in Toronto. They can help you understand the charges, the legal process, and the potential consequences of your case. Moreover, a DUI lawyer can help you build a strong defence strategy and negotiate with the prosecution to reduce the charges or penalties against you.
When choosing a DUI lawyer, looking for someone with experience and expertise in DUI cases is crucial. You should also consider their reputation, success rate, and communication skills. A good DUI lawyer should be able to explain the legal process in simple terms, answer your questions, and keep you informed about the progress of your case.
Book an Initial Consultation with One of Our Lawyers for Free
So before driving in Toronto, be aware of the legal BAC limit, the potential consequences of a DUI conviction, and the importance of hiring a DUI lawyer. By following these crucial pointers, you can protect yourself from the legal and personal consequences of driving under the influence.
Seek Calvin Barry Law when you’re charged with a DUI in Toronto. Our legal experts will determine the optimal, robust defence to minimize the penalties if the dismissal of charges is impossible. Get your free consultation by calling 416-938-5858 or visiting our office at 113 Front Street, East Toronto, Ontario.
