With Christmas and New Year’s right around the corner, anyone who is going to head out to festive parties should remember that they need to find a way to make it home safely if they are planning on having adult beverages. Oklahoma laws regarding impaired driving are strict, so taking a chance by driving yourself home is something that shouldn’t happen.
If an officer sees any behavior that signals that a driver might be impaired, they will conduct a traffic stop. They will then take steps to determine what’s going on. This can include specialized testing, including field sobriety tests or chemical tests.
If it is determined that you are impaired, you will be arrested. You will also face having your driver’s license suspended. The results of a breath test or a blood test will be sent to the Department of Public Safety for review. If it is found that your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level is higher than the acceptable level, you will receive an Order of Revocation in the mail. This outlines when you will lose your driving privilege.
The notice you receive has a time limit for how long you have to request an Administrative Hearing. If you had a breath test, you have 15 days. If you took a blood test, there will be a deadline on the form. Failing to request a hearing means that you accept the revocation, and you won’t be able to dispute it.
It is imperative that you know your rights and responsibilities if you are arrested for drunk driving. This can help you ensure that you take the steps that can protect you.