Connecticut Drunk Driving Laws

Every state has strict guidelines regarding the amount of alcohol a driver can have in his or her system while operating a vehicle. Because research suggests that most people show signs of impairment once the amount of alcohol in their bloodstream reaches 0.08%—a calculation known as blood alcohol content, or BAC—most states have laws to prohibit driving with a BAC above this limit. While this guideline remains one of the most frequently enforced laws in the nation, state legislation ultimately determines the types of penalties a person will receive if he or she is convicted of driving under the influence (DUI). With its strict sentencing guidelines, Connecticut drunk driving laws have become some of the toughest legal guidelines on the books.

Along with enforcing the federal 0.08% BAC limit, Connecticut law prohibits underage drivers from operating a vehicle with a BAC of 0.02% or more. Under state law, anyone who operates a commercial vehicle is also subjected to a lower BAC limit of just 0.04%. Additionally, all licensed drivers—regardless of age or license classification—are expected to comply with the state’s Implied Consent Law.

In simple terms, the Implied Consent Law makes it illegal for a driver to refuse to allow a member of law enforcement to conduct chemical testing to calculate BAC. Designed to detect the amount of alcohol found in a person’s breath, blood, or urine, chemical tests are one of the most common tools officers use to determine whether a driver should be arrested for driving under the influence. A driver automatically agrees to this law when he or she accepts a Connecticut license. As a result, he or she can also be arrested for violating it.

Drivers who refuse to perform a breathalyzer or other chemical test will face the same penalties as any other motorist who is charged with DUI, including a mandatory fine, license suspension, and jail sentence—even if it’s a first offense. Habitual drunk drivers, or anyone who has one or more prior DUI convictions on their record, face even harsher sentencing requirements.

For example, while the minimum punishment for a first DUI conviction includes a fine of $500, 48-hour jail sentence, and six-month license suspension, a second offense will result in no less than a $1,000 fine, 120-day jail sentence, and one-year license suspension. Community service is also required for a first or second DUI conviction. In some cases, the driver’s vehicle may even be impounded for 48 hours—leading to additional storage and towing costs.

Drivers who are convicted of three DUIs within a ten-year period will be granted even less leniency when it comes to their sentencing. Under state law, the minimum penalties for a third drunk driving conviction include a $2,000 to $8,000 fine and one-year jail sentence, as well as a permanent license revocation.

Fortunately, being arrested for DUI is not the same as being convicted of the crime. Many drivers are able to successfully challenge the charges against them and avoid many or all of the consequences of a drunk driving conviction. If you were recently arrested for DUI in Connecticut, complete our online form to request information from a skilled DUI defense attorney in your area who will conduct a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Submit your information today to start planning your defense.