Previous postings in this blog have discussed the potentially reputation-damaging impacts that a DUI can have on an individual who is famous or is a public figure. Even if the person is no longer is a highly-visible position, it is not uncommon for them to still be scrutinized if they are charged with driving under the influence of alcohol.
A situation that recently occurred involving a former South Carolina state treasurer is a perfect example of one in which a person has suffered an undue amount of scrutiny due to their former position as a public figure. The former treasurer was recently pulled over on suspicion of drunk driving. According to authorities, he not only failed numerous sobriety tests but also refused to take a breath test.
In South Carolina the blood-alcohol content legal limit for operating a motorized vehicle is .08. When an individual faces allegations that they were driving with a BAC that was higher than that legal limit it can mean serious consequences. However, refusing a breathalyzer can mean even more serious consequences for the accused individual.
According to South Carolina law, any driver that refuses a breath test is subject to an immediate and automatic revocation of their driver’s license. This revocation can last for 60 days or longer and is allowable under South Carolina’s implied consent laws.
Often times residents of South Carolina may not be aware of the ramifications of violating the state’s implied consent laws. However, whether they are aware or not the consequences remain the same. Anyone facing these types of charges and the penalties that accompany them should seek the assistance of an experienced attorney to help them through this scary time. A DUI defense attorney can potentially decrease the severity of the charges or obtain a less punitive punishment for the accused.
Source: WISTV, “Report: Ravenel failed several sobriety tests during DUI stop,” July 24, 2013