Eastern Shore DUI Attorneys

DUI Defense for Out-of-State Drivers on the Eastern Shore of Virginia

If you’re driving through the Eastern Shore of Virginia and get pulled over for a DUI, it can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re from out of state. Many drivers pass through this region on Rt 13 or while crossing the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, which are common areas for traffic stops. Driving Defense Law is here to help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.

DUI Charges on Rt 13: A Major Route for Travelers

Route 13 is a primary artery for travelers passing through the Eastern Shore of Virginia, stretching from Pennsylvania to Florida. It’s a major corridor for drivers from New York, Pennsylvania, and other nearby states heading south or back home. Law enforcement heavily patrols this road, and out-of-state drivers are often targeted for traffic violations, including DUI offenses.

If you’ve been pulled over and charged with a DUI on Rt 13, the process can be complicated. Virginia’s strict DUI laws apply to all drivers, regardless of where their license was issued. This can mean severe penalties, including fines, suspension of driving privileges, or even jail time. It’s crucial to have Driving Defense Law on your side, guiding you through the process and ensuring that your case is handled effectively.

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel: A Common DUI Enforcement Zone

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel is not just a marvel of engineering; it’s also a heavily monitored area for traffic violations. Stretching for over 17 miles, this bridge connects the Eastern Shore to Virginia Beach and other parts of southeastern Virginia. Many drivers traveling for vacations or returning home are unfamiliar with the strict enforcement that can happen here.

Law enforcement routinely sets up checkpoints or conducts stops for minor traffic infractions, which can escalate into DUI investigations. Out-of-state drivers, unfamiliar with Virginia’s zero-tolerance stance on impaired driving, may find themselves facing unexpected legal trouble. Driving Defense Law specializes in defending DUI charges on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, helping you understand your rights and options.

Out-of-State DUI Tickets: What You Need to Know

If you’ve received a DUI ticket while driving through Virginia, but your driver’s license is from another state, you may be wondering how this will affect you when you return home. In Virginia, a DUI conviction can have serious consequences that follow you beyond state lines. Through the Interstate Driver’s License Compact (IDLC), Virginia shares DUI conviction information with most other states, meaning that your home state will likely be notified of your offense.

This can result in consequences such as points on your license, increased insurance rates, and even the suspension of your license, depending on your state’s laws. Driving Defense Law has extensive experience handling out-of-state DUI cases and can guide you through this complicated process to minimize the impact of your charge.

Why You Need Driving Defense Law for Out-of-State DUI Tickets

Virginia’s DUI laws are strict, and dealing with a DUI charge as an out-of-state driver presents unique challenges. Hiring Driving Defense Law, with our local knowledge of Northampton County courts, Rt 13, and the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, can significantly improve the outcome of your case. We can appear on your behalf, work to reduce charges, and minimize penalties so that your out-of-state offense doesn’t have lasting repercussions back home.

If you need experienced DUI representation for an out-of-state charge on the Eastern Shore, contact Driving Defense Law today to discuss your case. We specialize in helping drivers from out of state navigate Virginia’s complex DUI laws.

A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) occurs when you operate a vehicle with a BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) of 0.08% or higher, or with detectable controlled substances in your system. Including:

• 0.02 milligrams of cocaine
• 0.1 milligrams of methamphetamine
• 0.01 milligrams of PCP (phencyclidine)
• 0.1 milligrams of MDMA (3,4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine)

What Are the Penalties for a First DUI?

First-time DUI penalties include:

• Fines of $250-$2,500
• Up to 12 months in jail
  • BAC of .15%-.20% – 5-day mandatory jail time
  • BAC of .20% or above– 10-day mandatory jail time
• One-year license revocation
• Completion of VASAP (Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program)

What Are the Penalties for a Second DUI?

Penalties for a second DUI in Virginia are more severe and vary based on how long it has been since your first conviction.

Second DUI within less than 5 years:

• Fines of $500-$2,500
  • BAC of .15% or above– $1,000 minimum fine
• Up to 12 months in jail, with a mandatory of 20 days
  • BAC of .15%-.20% – 30-day mandatory jail time
  • BAC of .20% or above– 40-day mandatory jail time
• Three-year license revocation
• Completion of VASAP (Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program)

Second DUI within 5-10 years:

• Fines of $500-$2,500
  • BAC of .15% or above– $1,000 minimum fine
• Up to 12 months in jail, with a mandatory of 10 days
  • BAC of .15%-.20% – 20-day mandatory jail time
  • BAC of .20% or above– 30-day mandatory jail time
• Three-year license revocation
• Completion of VASAP (Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program)

What Are the Penalties for a Third DUI?

A third DUI in Virginia is treated as a felony and also carries more severe penalties based on how long it has been since your last DUI conviction.

Third DUI within less than 5 years:

• Fines of $1,000-$2,500
• Up to 1-5 years in prison OR 1 year in jail
  • Mandatory of 6 months
• Indefinite license revocation

Third DUI within 5-10 years:

• Fines of $1,000-$2,500
• Up to 1-5 years in prison OR 1 year in jail
  • Mandatory of 90 days
• Indefinite license revocation

What Are the Penalties for a Fourth (or subsequent DUI)?

Penalties for a fourth or subsequent DUI include:

• Fines of $1,000-$2,500
• Up to 1-5 years in prison OR 1 year in jail
  • Mandatory of 1 year
• Indefinite license revocation

What Should You Do After a DUI?

If you are charged with a DUI, take action immediately. Call a Driving Defense Law attorney at 757-929-0335 or book a consultation today to protect your rights, minimize penalties, and safeguard your driving privileges. Early representation can make a critical difference in the outcome of your case.