Driving under the influence affects more than just you; arrive alive, don’t drink and drive, and friends don’t let friends drive drunk. As adults out on the road, we’ve heard these phrases since we’ve started driving, and even see them posted on billboards nationwide. The state of Tennessee is emphasizing the phrase “Alcohol: you use, and you lose” with the new DUI laws that they’ve passed. If you or someone you know is facing DUI charges or has a history of DUI charges, it’s imperative that you know and understand their new and harsher DUI laws.
New DUI Laws in Tennessee
It is a serious offense to drive under the influence in the state of Tennessee, and they just raised the stakes. While the legal blood alcohol concentration limit in Tennessee remains 0.08%, the new laws lower the aggravating DUI factor to .15%.
What does that mean exactly?
- Before, if you were driving under the influence and exceeded .20%, you faced 48 hours in jail.
- As of July 1st, 2024, if you are caught driving under the influence and you’re over 0.15%, the penalty is seven days in jail.
Work Release laws surrounding DUI cases have also changed.
- First-time offenders below the 0.15% BAC were generally eligible for work release and could continue working through their sentences.
- As of July 1st 2024, this eliminates automatic work release eligibility for all DUI convictions regardless of BAC or history and allows the judge to rule on a case-by-case basis.
These laws are to keep Tennessee roads safer and to encourage drivers to think twice before they drive while under the influence. Everyone has a different tolerance for alcohol, and without being aware of these changes, you may need a professional DUI defense strategy.
Lower BAC Limit
Blood Alcohol Content or BAC is the amount of alcohol in your blood that develops from drinking. A BAC of 0.08% or higher is considered legally impaired in the U.S., and while you can be arrested when your BAC is that high, you can still be charged if it is at any level above 0.00%. While a good rule is one drink per hour, the common factors that change the way we all are affected by alcohol. One drink to a six foot tall man will affect him differently than a petite woman. This is due to body type, rate of consumption, hydration and food intake, and even medications.
BAC varies depending on a host of factors and can quickly leave you more intoxicated than you believe. You should never drink and drive, no matter how much you have consumed.
Protecting Yourself Under the New Laws
The best way to protect yourself from the new DUI laws in Tennessee is never to drive while under the influence. Whether you have a history of DUIs or not, the punishments are only getting more extreme and will increase if you do have a history of charges.
Hiring a professional DUI attorney is crucial. Preparation, experience, and a sense of urgency in these cases will allow you to have the best representation possible. They will help you navigate the court system and any appeals you must make.
Tips for Responsible Driving
For the sake of everyone’s safety on the road and to prevent DUI accidents, it is critical for everyone to respect responsible driving and to stay safe.
- Designate a sober driver
- Utilize public transport or rideshare apps
- Avoid peer pressure
- Stay educated on DUI laws
- Host or attend alcohol-free events
- Report suspicious drivers
As a collective community, we, as drivers on the road, can prioritize everyone’s safety to reduce DUI accidents. The choices we make before getting behind the wheel of a car are vital to creating safer roads for everyone.
Facing a DUI Charge? Zangler Law Firm Can Help
Navigating the complexities of the ever changing legal system and DUI offenses in Tennessee can be overwhelming. That’s why our team at Zanger Law is here to guide you through every step of your legal journey. Advocating for your rights, we, as your neighbors, take the time to bring our dedicated and professional care to your legal battles, ensuring you receive the most favorable disposition on your case. If you have been arrested in WhiteHouse, TN, or the nearby communities, contact us to schedule a confidential and no-obligation consultation. We have the experience your case needs.
