Driving Under the Influence in California

Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is not just illegal; it’s extremely dangerous. Individuals who drive while intoxicated put themselves and everyone on the road at risk of a crash.

More than 2,500 people were killed and injured in collisions that involved alcohol in San Diego County in 2016. Of those crashes, 135 involved a driver under 21 who was under the influence of alcohol. Another 886 involved drivers between the ages of 21 and 34 who had been drinking, according to the California Office of Traffic Safety. 

Below is a breakdown of the laws with regard to driving under the influence in California.

Illegal Blood Alcohol Concentration in California

The illegal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels for passenger vehicle drivers are as follows:

• BAC of 0.08% or higher for drivers age 21 or older,
• BAC of 0.01% or higher for drivers under 21, and
• BAC of 0.01% or higher if a driver (at any age) is already on probation for a DUI.

The State of California will suspend or revoke the driving privilege of anyone arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol (or a combination of alcohol and drugs) with an illegal BAC. The same consequences are imposed on those arrested who refuses to take a BAC test.

Consequences for Drunk Driving

The length of time a person’s driving privilege will be suspended depends on the situation. For example, license suspension could be:

• Four months for the first offense,
• One year if the driver has additional, separate offenses in the past 10 years, and
• One, two or three years for drivers who refuse to complete a BAC test, depending on his or her record and other details,

People who drive while impaired are more likely to injure others. If you were hurt by a drunk driver in California as a passenger, pedestrian, bicyclist, or other motorist, it’s important to take action immediately. Any car crash can cause debilitating injuries, not to mention emotional trauma, property damage, and more. The person at fault must answer for the careless acts that hurt you.

Legal Help for Victims Hurt by Someone Driving Under the Influence in California

It’s important to act quickly after a crash with someone driving under the influence in California. Speaking with an experienced car crash attorney immediately can get the investigation started before evidence disappears.

CaseyGerry has been protecting the rights of injured people for the better part of a century. If you were injured in a crash with a drunk driver in San Diego, we can help. Please contact our firm at (619) 238-1811.