The 2016 holiday season is underway, and many people are making plans to attend social gatherings with co-workers, friends and family. Often, such festivities include alcohol. Anyone in Lake Charles or other Louisiana regions who consumes alcohol before driving a car will want to be aware of the potential repercussions of such a choice, including increased chances of motor vehicle collisions and drunk driving charges.
It’s no secret that many accidents are caused by drunk drivers. However, merely being charged with such a crime does not necessarily mean a conviction will be handed down in court. If convicted, in addition the possibility of being sent to jail or fined, there may be long-lasting financial impact as well.
In this state, insurance rates may increase by as much as 17 percent following a DUI conviction. Because such increases may not take immediate effect, drivers may be shocked when they are billed at higher amounts upon renewal of their policies. Most people obviously hope to avoid such consequences when facing DUI charges in court.
There have been many past situations in Lake Charles and surrounding areas in Louisiana where those accused of drunk driving have been able to avoid conviction. The easiest means by which to increase one’s chances of obtaining a positive outcome is to retain the help of an experienced criminal defense lawyer. If it is determined that a police officer acted outside prescribed measures of authority, evidence proffered may be successfully challenged in court. By employing such aggressive defense strategies, an attorney may be able to combat tactics used by prosecutors in order to minimize the negative impact of a particular situation.
Source: consumeraffairs.com, “States where drunk driving will cost you the most“, Mark Huffman, Dec. 12, 2016
