Why Is A DUI In Arizona A Big No No?
Of the 50 states in the USA Arizona has put the hardest DUI laws on the books. Over the last 10 years the required sentencing and jail conditions have created a situation that many consider inhumane and harsh. Living or traveling in Arizona brings the scary proposition that you may be pulled over for suspicion of DUI. This article’s intent is to give you some ideas to consider:
1. Don’t Drink and Drive – The most obvious and simple idea is to not drink and drive to begin with. Not only does it put you at risk for getting a DUI but it endangers you, your passengers, other drivers and passengers, and pedestrians. An easy way to not get a DUI is to take a cab home.
2. Understand your rights – If you are pulled over for a DUI it is critical that you know your rights. You do not have to agree to a road side sobriety test or blood test. You must have your ID, registration, and proof of insurance on you when an officer asks for them. You can request the right to speak with your attorney.
3. Get a qualified and experienced Arizona DUI Lawyer – The laws in Arizona are constantly being updated, having an attorney who knows the laws well is going to be critical. It will also help if they know the court that you are appearing in and have some sort of rapport with the Prosecutor and Judge.
4. Think Fall, Winter, or Spring – When it comes to sentencing you will be going to tent city. Sheriff Joe has made a name for himself by being very hard on criminals. During his tenure as Sheriff of Maricopa County Joe Arapaio has succeeded in getting numerous lawsuits filed against the county. While going to tent city is no vacation it is especially harsh in the summer. In Arizona in the summer temperatures can exceed 100 degree making the lack of A/C very apparent. In Tent City inmates complain about the quality of the food being very poor and relying on the vending machines.
5. Beat the Heat and Don't Repeat – After you get one DUI learn your lesson and don't get another. If you do get a repeat DUI offense be prepared to pay more fines and spend more time in the pokey. If you get enough DUI offenses you might wind up in Prison which makes Tent City look like recess.
In the end following the first suggestion above will help you the most in avoiding a DUI in Arizona. After that be sure to understand your rights and have a number for a good attorney if you do get pulled over. Once you have a DUI you are trying to minimize the damage like not loosing your job or marriage.
