Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed March 05, 2018
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Massachusetts has a proud brewing tradition. Residents take beer seriously, but the laws relating to drunk driving are just as serious. The best way to avoid an operating under the influence charge [OUI] is to stay out of a vehicle if you've been drinking. The next best way is to properly understand the OUI laws, including your rights and the potential penalties for different OUI charges.
In Massachusetts, as everywhere else in the United States, it is against that law to drink alcohol to the point of being "under the influence" and operating your motor vehicle. It is also against the law to be under the influence of a controlled substance or even a prescription drug and drive. While some of you know this crime as "DUI," in this state it is known as "Operating Under the Influence" (OUI). No matter whether we are talking DUI, DWI, or OUI, it is illegal and punishment for this crime can be severe, including losing your driver's license for a period of time and more.
If you are suspected of a Massachusetts OUI, a police officer can require you to take a blood or breath test to determine the amount of alcohol in your system. You don't have the option of refusing to take this test. Why? Because of implied consent laws which basically say that when you signed up for the privilege to drive, you impliedly agreed to take a chemical test when a police officer suspects you of driving while intoxicated. If you do refuse, the penalties can include an automatic driver's license suspension and even a separate criminal charge.
The following chart provides information about the blood alcohol levels that trigger a charge, various penalties and resources for getting assistance with your OUI defense.
Massachusetts OUI Laws: Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits and Implied Consent |
|
| "Per Se" BAC Limit | 0.08 Percent |
| Zero Tolerance (Underage) BAC Limit | 0.02 Percent |
| Enhanced Penalty (Aggravated) BAC Limit | 0.20 |
| Implied Consent to Submit to BAC Test? | Yes |
Massachusetts OUI Laws: Select Penalties |
|
| Minimum License Suspension or Revocation (1st, 2nd, 3rd offense) | 1 year (reduced w/ alcohol education course)/2 years /8 years |
| Mandatory Alcohol Education, Assessment and Treatment | Yes |
| Vehicle Confiscation Possible? | Yes |
| Ignition Interlock Device Possible? | Yes (required for repeat offenders) |
If you are accused of OUI in Massachusetts, make sure you know the law and your options before making your next move. Attorneys who represent clients in DUI cases can ensure that you present a strong defense to OUI charges. Get started today by finding an experienced OUI attorney today.
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