Mississippi DUI laws have had some changes in the last few years to increase not only the penalties but the instances in which you can be charged with a DUI. With the number of DUIs in this country still very high, states have cracked down to discourage drunk driving, and increasing the burdens associated with a DUI conviction.
The national blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level that is considered intoxication is .08%. For a Mississippi DUI charge, you do not necessarily have to have a BAC that’s over this limit. If you are exhibiting signs of driving under the influence, such as swerving, drifting left to center, slow or excessive speed, or erratic driving, or if you fail a road sobriety, test you will be charged with a DUI regardless of your BAC level.
For CDL (commercial driver’s license) holders the drunk driving BAC limit is reduced to .04%. If you are a CDL driver, a conviction will most likely end your career. Underage drinkers also need to beware. As you are already breaking the law by drinking in the first place, driving afterward is one of the worst decisions you can make. If your BAC is found to be .02% or higher, you will be charged with a Mississippi DUI and it can affect everything from your education to your career.
You can also be subjected to higher penalties if your BAC is excessive in Mississippi, including jail time and a longer ignition interlock requirement. This along with other aggravating circumstances can result in your Mississippi DUI conviction becoming even more burdensome to you and your life. A DUI conviction will change your life, and possibly the lives of others, forever.