Being convicted of driving under the influence of driving while impaired can have life-changing consequences. That’s especially true when the offense has additional aspects known in the legal realm as aggravating factors. Hiring a Driving While Impaired Attorney in LA is critical to effectively fight the charges and prevent the worst possible consequences.
Aggravating Factors
Causing an accident or injuring a passenger are examples of aggravating factors. Having a minor child in the vehicle while driving under the influence is another. Sometimes the individual commits a combination of offenses. This person may be caught after a hit and run, for instance, and discovered to be intoxicated. This is a serious matter and requires the assistance of a Driving While Impaired Attorney in LA. Even without the aspect of intoxication, a conviction of hit and run driving has a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 days in jail in this state.
Reducing the Charge
If there are no aggravating factors, a lawyer such as Chris Richard, Attorney at Law, may be able to convince the prosecution to reduce the charge. Louisiana state law allows for an operating while impaired charge to be decreased to reckless driving with alcohol as a factor, commonly called wet reckless. This is still a serious charge, but not as consequential as a conviction of operating under the influence or driving while impaired.
Types of Impairment
Impairment does not have to involve alcohol use, and it doesn’t have to involve the use of illegal drugs. A driver may be considered impaired if he or she is drowsy from taking antihistamines or other medication with this side effect. Traveling while very fatigued can also be a type of impairment. The driver must have done some questionable activity that provides justification for an officer to pull this person over.
A Steep Cost
The cost of monetary penalties associated with all these types of convictions is steep, particularly for charges related to alcohol and illegal drugs. In addition, insurance premiums will skyrocket upon conviction, and that situation lasts for many years. A person who needs professional legal representation to pursue the best possible outcome may view the website chrisrichardattorney.com.
