Drunk driving is a crime in every state, but each state has slightly different laws used to enforce this legal concern. In many locations, the term used for drunk driving is a driving under the influence (DUI) offense. However, in New Mexico, the term used is a driving while intoxicated (DWI) offense.
People who occasionally enjoy alcohol are among those who are particularly vulnerable to DWI charges. Motorists arrested for impaired driving often choose to plead guilty. They might make that decision in part because they lack adequate information about the consequences of that choice.
The better people understand the allegations that they face, the better their chances of limiting the fallout of a recent arrest. What do New Mexico drivers need to know about DWI charges?
Poor driving isn’t necessary
Many people assume that if they have a tolerance for alcohol or other substances, they can avoid DWI charges. However, drivers who may not display impaired ability could still end up arrested. People pulled over for completely unrelated issues can also end up facing DWI charges. If a driver has a blood alcohol concentration over the legal limit, that is an adequate reason for the state to bring charges against them.
Penalties increase with each charge
New Mexico has progressive penalties for DWI offenses. A first conviction might result in up to $500 in fines, 90 days in jail and a year-long driver’s license revocation. A second DWI carries up to 364 days in jail, $1,000 in fines and a two-year revocation. The penalties continue to increase with subsequent offenses.
DWIs carry secondary consequences
A DWI is not just a traffic ticket. It is a criminal offense that shows up when employers or other interested parties perform background checks. People with DWI convictions on their records may also have a difficult time progressing their careers even if they don’t look for new employment after a conviction. Background checks are common during performance reviews and the process of choosing a candidate for a significant promotion. Landlords and educational institutions are among the various parties who may perform background checks. Insurance providers may also look at a motorist’s driving record. A DWI offense can drastically increase insurance costs.
There are a number of different defense strategies that can help people avoid DWI convictions. Learning more about New Mexico’s DWI rules can help defendants choose the best way to respond.