If convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) in Oklahoma, you may have to deal with severe consequences. Besides license suspension, there are hefty fines and jail time involved, depending on the circumstances. If you are worried about a DUI charge, click here for a free consultation session. Here are a few things to know about DUI laws and related aspects in Oklahoma.
You will have to go for the breathalyzer test when asked
If a police officer has reasons to believe that you are driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they are most likely to ask you to go for a breathalyzer test to determine your blood-alcohol concentration level. In that context, Oklahoma has the implied consent rule. If you refuse the test, your license will be revoked, and you will be arrested. Take note of everything that happened at the time of your arrest or when the officer stopped you. You may have a stronger case if they fail to adhere to the typical procedure.
Understand the BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) details
If your BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) level is 0.08% or higher, you can be charged with DUI as per Oklahoma laws. However, if you are under 21 and your BAC level is lower than 0.08%, you could still be arrested. There are also circumstances when someone over 21 can be arrested for DUI when their BAC is below the norm. The test is likely to be recorded through body cams or dash cams, and therefore, in your best interests, you should say as little as possible.
Know about SFST (Standardized Field Sobriety Tests)
The police officer may also ask you to go for SFST (Standardized Field Sobriety Tests). This could mean that they ask you to walk and turn around or look at a moving object. You have the right to refuse field sobriety tests, as these tests are not always accurate and could be subjective. If you took a field sobriety test and failed, you need to understand why that happened.
Saying a lot can go against you
Except for your attorney, do not talk to anyone about the incident. Anything you say to the police or others can be used against you. Get a criminal law expert or a DUI lawyer as soon as possible; whatever you tell them will remain confidential.
Also, remember that you don’t have to be driving the car to be charged with DUI in Oklahoma.