The consequence of a first DUI in Tennessee can be quite serious. Tennessee law provides for a variety of penalties, some at the judge's discretion for first time DUI offenders.
In Tennessee, as in most other states you are considered DUI if you are operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol, or have a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or higher.
Refusing to take blood alcohol concentration test
Tennessee assumes "implied consent" which means that if you are driving a car it is presumed you will agree to a blood alcohol concentration test. Refusing to take a blood alcohol concentration test has its own consequences; the first time you refuse a blood alcohol concentration test you can have your license revoked for up to five years!
- 1 year license suspension (basic first time refusing BAC test)
- 2 years license suspension if there was a crash and it resulted in bodily injury
-
5 years license suspension if there was a crash that resulted in a death
1st offense DUI Consequences
Tennessee protects it citizens from those who choose to drive while intoxicated through strict penalties which include:
- Jail time from 2 days to almost 1 year (11 months, 29 days)
- If blood alcohol concentration is found to be .20 or higher, there is a mandatory minimum 7 days in jail
- Fine of $350 to $1,500
- License suspension for 1 year
- Mandatory participation in a DUI school
Beyond these, another consequence of a first DUI in Tennessee is that the judge can order you to install an ignition interlock in your car which essentially causes you to have to pass a blood alcohol concentration test each time you wish to start your car. You have to pay for the ignition interlock, at an estimated cost of about $810.
Further, you can be ordered to pay restitution to someone who was injured in a crash that you caused, including restitution for their personal property. You can also be ordered to attend a Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center at a judge's discretion.
Additional Monetary Consequences
In addition to the risk you take losing your job if you are convicted of DUI or because your license has been suspended and you can no longer perform your job, there are other expenses that will add to the unpleasant consequences of a first DUI. You can expect to shell out about $4,900 paying for things like towing, bail, attorney fees, license reinstatement, DUI school, and court costs.
Get Legal Help
If you have been arrested for DUI, get legal help immediately. You are going to have lots of questions and will need the help of a competent attorney to defend you and help you get the best possible outcome.
