Authorities in upstate New York took a tractor-trailer driver into custody after they allegedly found that he had been driving with a blood-alcohol level that was almost five times higher than the legal limit. Police found him after they responded to reports of an intoxicated truck driver who was in a shopping plaza located in Saratoga County, which is about 20 miles north of Albany.
According to state troopers, the truck driver, who was from Schenectady, had a blood-alcohol level of 0.19 percent. According to state laws, the legal limit to operate a commercial vehicle is 0.04 percent. Also if a person is driving a commercial vehicle with a blood-alcohol level of 0.18 percent or higher, the person may be charged with a felony. The driver was detained in the county jail, and he faces charges of aggravated felony driving while intoxicated.
A DWI conviction can leave a lasting impact and may involve harsh sentences. The penalties can include license suspension, heavy fines, installation and maintenance of ignition interlocking devices as well as jail time in some cases.
When an individual faces charges concerning an alleged DWI, that person can either choose to go to trial or make a plea. Those facing DWI charges may benefit from discussing their options with an attorney who might be knowledgeable concerning DWI law. Such an attorney may be able to educate the defendant concerning the consequences of plea or how likely a client is to win a particular case. The attorney may be able to negotiate with prosecutes in an effort to minimize jail time and fines.
Source: Claims Journal, “New York Cops Say Beverage Truck Driver Was Driving Drunk“, October 22, 2013
