When it comes to alcohol and driving, a momentary lapse in judgment can sometimes result in severe penalties. People who have been charged with DUI can best protect their own rights by turning to a legal advisor who can make sure the full burden of proof lies squarely on the prosecution. That kind of representation is likely what a Jersey City man will need after he crashed his vehicle into a police truck.
On Sunday night, the man’s pickup truck apparently crossed into the opposite lane of traffic before colliding with a police emergency response vehicle. The driver of the police truck was sent to the hospital after reporting pain in his right hip, and the pickup truck driver was taken into custody. Police claim that he had a blood-alcohol level of 0.16 percent.
In such a case, it is important that the accused driver is fully aware of his or her rights. Arresting officers do make mistakes, and sometimes Breathalyzers are inaccurate. New Jersey and New York residents who are up against a DUI charge will want to explore their options for a possible reduction or dismissal of charges.
Penalties for a DWI conviction can include the loss of driving privileges and the imposition of interlock devices, along with heavy fines and even jail time. Overzealous charging and unfair sentencing can also cause severe damage to a person’s lifestyle and reputation.
As for the Jersey City man whose truck hit the police vehicle, the future may look like an uphill battle. But that is no reason not to fight for one’s rights. The alternative is certainly no cake walk, either.
Source: NJ.com, “Jersey City man charged with drunk driving after crashing into Emergency Services Unit truck,” July 31, 2012
