new york vehicle and traffic law 1192 3 driving while intoxicate

Driving While Intoxicated in New York (VTL 1192.3) – A Simple Explanation

Getting arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) in New York can be scary. But what exactly does it mean to be charged with DWI under Vehicle and Traffic Law 1192.3? This article will break down the law in simple terms, covering what constitutes DWI, potential penalties, and ways you may be able to fight the charges.

What is DWI in New York?

Under VTL 1192.3, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while you are in an “intoxicated condition.” This means:

Your ability to drive is impaired by alcohol or drugs
Your blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08% or higher (for drivers over 21)

Just a few drinks can get you to the .08% BAC level. For commercial drivers, a BAC of just .04% can lead to a DWI charge. And for drivers under 21, any detectable amount of alcohol in their system can constitute a DWI.

Penalties for DWI Convictions

A DWI conviction in New York can potentially lead to:

Jail time – up to 1 year
Fines – $500 to $1,000
License suspension – minimum 6 months
Ignition interlock device required
5 points on your license
Higher insurance rates

Penalties get harsher if you have prior DWI convictions within the past 10 years. A second DWI conviction within 10 years makes it a felony with stiffer consequences. Refusing a chemical BAC test also leads to additional penalties.

Fighting DWI Charges

Since the penalties for a DWI conviction can be severe, it’s important to fight the charges with an experienced New York DWI defense lawyer. Some ways a lawyer may get your charges reduced or dismissed include:

Invalid traffic stop – If you were pulled over without probable cause, evidence may be suppressed
Faulty chemical test – Errors in administering breathalyzer or blood tests can invalidate results
No proof of “intoxication” – Challenge whether your driving ability was truly impaired
Medical conditions – Certain conditions like diabetes mimic signs of intoxication

An attorney can also negotiate with the prosecutor, perhaps getting the charges reduced to a non-criminal traffic infraction. This avoids jail time and a permanent criminal record.

New York’s “Driving While Ability Impaired” Law

New York also has a DWAI law (VTL 1192.1) that is similar to DWI but less severe. DWAI involves driving after consuming alcohol that impairs driving ability, but not necessarily to the “intoxicated” level of DWI. It has lighter penalties than DWI.

Underage “Zero Tolerance” DWI Laws

Drivers under 21 face even stricter DWI laws in New York. Just .02% BAC – essentially any detectable alcohol – leads to a DWI charge. And if you refuse a chemical test, you face a 1 year license suspension even if not convicted of DWI.

New York’s “Aggravated DWI” Law

If your BAC is .18% or higher, you can be charged with the more serious Aggravated DWI under VTL 1192.2-a. This carries harsher penalties than a standard DWI charge.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if pulled over on a DWI suspicion?

Politely refuse to answer questions or perform field sobriety tests. Say you wish to speak to an attorney first. Do not resist arrest if taken into custody.

Can my license be suspended before I’m convicted of DWI?

Yes, if you refuse a chemical BAC test, your license can be suspended immediately prior to any conviction.

Should I plead guilty and take a plea bargain?

Not necessarily – talk to a lawyer first about options. Pleading guilty results in a permanent criminal record.

What if I was prescribed medication that impaired my driving?

This may be a valid medical defense to DWI charges – consult an attorney regarding the details.

Can I get my DWI charges reduced to DWAI?

Potentially yes, through plea negotiations with the prosecutor. DWAI is a traffic infraction rather than a criminal offense.

The Bottom Line

Being arrested for DWI is scary, but experienced legal representation can help minimize the consequences. An attorney may be able to get charges reduced or dismissed based on issues with evidence or procedural errors. Don’t hesitate to call a lawyer if facing DWI charges in New York.