How to Avoid a Hit and Run Conviction in California
How to Avoid a Hit and Run Conviction in California
What Is a Hit and Run? Under California Vehicle Code Sections 20001 and 20002, a person is guilty of a hit and run if he: Leaves the scene of an accident Fails to identify himself to the other involved parties Damages property or injures another person Hit and runs can be either a misdemeanor or a felony. If the accident only caused property damage, then it is classified as a misdemeanor. If…
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How DUIs Affect Your Job Search in California
While most people realize that driving under the influence (DUI) carries consequences such as fines and jail time, many may not realize the broader effects that a DUI can have on employment and one’s general quality of life. Even a single misdemeanor DUI can jeopardize a person’s career, as convictions can lead to job termination or the suspension of a professional license. How Does a DUI Affect Employment? Rideshare Drivers …
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Can You Drive for Uber/Lyft in California with a DUI?
If you are convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) in California, you may be facing serious consequences, including fines and jail time. However, DUIs can also impact your ability to work, especially if you have a job in ride-sharing. Continue reading to find out whether you can drive for Uber or Lyft in California if you have a DUI on your record. Driver Requirements for Uber and Lyft In…
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California DUI Classes: What You Should Know
Who Has to Take DUI Classes? When you are convicted of driving under the influence in California, the court or the DMV may order you to complete a program that provides alcohol and drug education and counseling. These DUI classes are intended to prevent repeat DUI offenses and provide participants with an opportunity for education and rehabilitation. There are a few types of programs for different DUI offenses: Wet reckless…
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Can I Use the Self-Driving Feature While Intoxicated?
California’s Laws For Autonomous Cars In 2012, California became the third state to allow self-driving vehicles to operate on the state’s roads. These autonomous cars are able to drive themselves without a person physically controlling them. The legislature found that these vehicles offer significant safety and convenience benefits and approved the testing and operation of autonomous cars following the California DMV regulations. In order to deploy these cars on the…
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Pleading No Contest vs Pleading Guilty in a DUI Case
What Is a No Contest Plea? If you are arrested for a DUI in California, it is crucial to understand your rights as a defendant. Whether to plead guilty, no contest, or not guilty is an important decision that will shape your future in different ways. Pleading guilty is simple; you are fully admitting that you drove under the influence and are now accepting the penalties for doing so. A…
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Do DUIs Qualify for Drug Diversion Programs?
What Are Drug Diversion Programs? In criminal law, a diversion is an alternative to criminal prosecution and incarceration, allowing first-time, low-level offenders a chance to participate in a rehabilitation program and subsequently have their charges dismissed. Drug diversion, specifically, offers non-violent drug offenders to get addiction treatment and education instead of jail time. California Penal Code Section 1000 details the requirements that one must meet in order to qualify for…
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Consequences of an Open Container Violation
California Vehicle Code 23222 In most cities in the United States, drinking on the streets is prohibited. California law makes it illegal to possess or consume an open container of alcohol in public places. If someone is caught with an open container on the streets, he may be given a ticket. However, the penalties may be more severe if the open container is in an automobile. Under California Vehicle Code…
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Lowering Insurance Rates After a DUI
How Does a DUI Affect Insurance Rates? A DUI conviction can lead to serious legal and insurance consequences. Fines, license suspension, and prison time are some of the penalties that the court can impose. When you drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, your judgment, coordination, and response times are impaired. You are much more likely to be in an accident if your driving abilities aren't up to…
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Driving with a Suspended License After a DUI
When Can My License Be Suspended? The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can suspend or revoke your driver’s license for many reasons. These reasons can range from mental incompetence to reckless driving to failure to appear in court. One of the most serious types of suspensions occurs when a person receives a DUI. The DMV is required to suspend or revoke the driving privileges of any person arrested for driving…
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