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There is strict punishment in the Arkansas for people who are booked under DWI laws. Apart from the fine of $1,000, you also need to spend ten days in jail. You have seven days to challenge the suspension of your driving license. After being booked for DWI in the state of Arkansas, you will be given a temporary driving license which is valid for one month.
2009 Arkansas Criminal Law Modifications
The Arkansas Legislative assembly has come up with a number of amendments with regard to DWI laws. You need to have a proper understanding of these changes otherwise you may not be able to fight your DWI case during court. From July 1, 2009, there is an increase in the fine limits violations and misdemeanors. If you are booked for Class A, you will pay $2,500. For Class B, you will pay $1,000 and for Class C you will pay $500.
According to Act 341, there is an increase in the maximum fine for municipal ordinances violation from $500 to $1,000. In terms of driving license suspension, for the first DWI offense, your driving license can be suspended for a period of four months to six months. Act 922 states that your driving license can be suspended for a period of one year if it is your second or third DWI offense. Once this period is over, you need to install an interlock device in your vehicle.
Interlock Devices – On the basis of past record and the kind of DWI you are booked for, you need to install an interlock device in your vehicle. Interlock devices are governed by the Arkansas Department of Health. There are plenty of companies operating in the state of Arkansas that provide assistance in installing interlock devices, so there is no effect on your driving privileges.
Arkansas Commercial Vehicle License – In the state of Arkansas, there are increased driver’s license suspensions for individuals with a commercial vehicle license. If you refuse to undergo a chemical test, you are going to face huge financial penalties. If it is your first offense, you will not be able to operate a commercial motor vehicle for one year. For individuals booked under the Hazardous Materials Regulations Act, this suspension period can go up to three years. For a second offense, there is a strong possibility that you will be banned for life from operating a commercial vehicle.
Chemical Testing – When arrested in Arkansas for DWI, you need to offer a sample of urine, blood and breath for testing. If you refuse to give sample, your punishment will increase if you found guilty of the charges presented by the law enforcement official in the court proceeding. Your driving license will be suspended on the spot if you refuse to give your sample.
What to Do Next
When booked for DWI in Arkansas, make sure that you take the charge seriously. Hire an experienced DWI attorney that has comprehensive knowledge of Arkansas DWI laws. |
