The offence of driving under the influence is found at section 49(1)(a) of the Road Safety Act 1986 (RSA).
49(1) A person is guilty of an offence if he or she—
(a) drives a motor vehicle or is in charge of a motor vehicle whilst under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of the motor vehicle.
DUI Penalty
The penalty for driving under the influence of intoxicating liquor is found in s 49(2)(a):
(a) For a first offence:
A maximum fine of 25 penalty units or 3 months in gaol or both.
(b) For a second offence:
A maximum fine of 120 penalty units or 12 months gaol or both.
(c) Any other subsequent offence:
A maximum fine of 180 penalty units or 18 months gaol or both.
DUI Licence Disqualification:
For an offence against s 49(1)(a), section 50(1B) of the RSA requires a mandatory disqualification from driving. For a first offence this is two years and for a second offence four years. An offence will be considered a second offence if the prior matter (i.e. conviction at court) occurred within the 10 years preceding the date the second offence was committed.
It is common for police to lay a charge under s 49(1)(f) & 49(1)(b) alongside a careless driving charge as an alternative charge to s 49(1)(a). It is often better to resolve the case on an exceed prescribed content of alcohol (PCA) charge and careless driving charge, as the mandatory minimum time off the road will usually be reduced in these circumstances.
It is important that you discuss strategy with an experienced traffic defence lawyer regarding the best way to resolve your matter. For example, a careless driving charge attracts three demerit points. It might be the case that by accepting a careless driving charge, you would breach a VicRoads bond to not commit any demerit point offences, which might see you off the road for an extra six to twelve months. In this case it might be in your interests to accept the more serious charge. This is a perfect example of why it is always important to discuss your case with an experienced traffic lawyer.
DUI Charges Defence Elements:
If you have been charged with driving a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol under the RSA, you should seek professional legal help as soon as possible. The sooner you speak with a traffic defence solicitor, the better your chances of a favourable outcome at court.
