Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
On Saturday July 6, a 32-year-old Harbor Springs man was arrested after being pulled over by a Leelanau County deputy. He was charged with OWI with High BAC after a Datamaster test revealed a blood alcohol content of .22%, nearly three times Michigan’s legal limit of .08.
At approximately 5:00 p.m., a motorist called in a vehicle suspected of being operated by a drunk or impaired driver in the area of S. West Bay Shore Drive in Suttons Bay Township. The suspected drunk driver came up behind a Leelanau County patrol car that was driving in the same direction. At this point, the deputy driving the patrol car pulled off as the suspect passed, then pulled in behind him to observe for signs of intoxication. The deputy observed the driver of the vehicle crossing the center line into the oncoming lane several times, and initiated a traffic stop
The suspect failed field sobriety tests, and demonstrated symptoms of intoxication according to a news article at Mlive.com. After posting a $1,500 personal recognizance bond the man was released from custody.
Michigan drivers license reinstatement attorneys realize that the penalties are harsh enough for those convicted of DUI or OWI; however, when an individual is charged with ‘super drunk’ driving, the penalties become even more harsh – including driver’s license suspension. For example, a first-time offender who is charged with a typical DUI will face a 30-day license suspension followed by 150 days of restricted driving. However, if an individual is found to have a BAC of .17 or higher and is charged with super drunk driving, that individual’s license will be suspended for one year, with restrictions permitted after 45 days.
The privilege to drive is a necessary part of life today; without a license, getting to and from work and school or finding transportation to other important appointments, meetings, or events becomes a real hardship. If your license has been suspended due to a drunk or drugged driving offense, consult with a skilled Michigan driver’s license restoration lawyer immediately.