Central Coast Drink Driving Lawyer
Drink driving is a serious criminal offence in New South Wales legislated by the Road Transport Act, with strict penalties for those caught over the legal limit. If you’ve been charged with drink driving on the Central Coast, you should speak to Koa Legal to better understanding the law and your options.
Below, is a short outline of the key details and penalties involved.
Legal Blood Alcohol Limits in NSW
In NSW, the legal limit varies depending on the type of driver. The table below outlines the different blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits:
| Licence Type | Legal Limit (BAC) |
|---|---|
| Learner (L) & Provisional (P) | 0.00% |
| Full Licence Holder | 0.05% |
| Heavy Vehicle Drivers | 0.02% |
| Taxi, Bus & Uber Drivers | 0.02% |
Drink Driving Offences and Penalties
Drink driving offences in NSW are divided into different categories based on BAC levels:
| Offence Level | BAC Range | Penalties (First Offence) | Penalties (Subsequent Offences) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low Range | 0.05 – 0.079% | Fine up to $2,200, 3-month licence suspension | Fine up to $3,300, 6-month licence suspension, interlock device |
| Mid Range | 0.08 – 0.149% | Fine up to $2,200, 6 to 12 months licence disqualification, possible jail | Fine up to $3,300, 12 to 24 months licence disqualification, up to 12 months jail |
| High Range | 0.15% and above | Fine up to $3,300, 12 to 36 months licence disqualification, up to 18 months jail | Fine up to $5,500, permanent disqualification possible, up to 2 years jail |
| Refusing Breath Test | N/A | Same as High Range | Same as High Range |
In some situations, Licence Appeals against the period of suspension may exists.
What Happens If You’re Caught Drink Driving?
If you’re pulled over and return a positive breath test, you may be arrested and taken to a police station for further testing. Depending on your BAC, you could receive an immediate licence suspension and be required to attend court. Penalties increase for repeat offenders, and in many cases, you may need to install an alcohol interlock device in your vehicle.
Can You Fight a Drink Driving Charge?
If you’ve been charged with drink driving, it’s important to seek legal advice immediately. A skilled Central Coast drink driving lawyer can assess your case and determine whether there are grounds to contest the charge, such as:
- Faulty or unreliable breath tests
- Police procedural errors
- Medical conditions affecting BAC readings
Contact KOA Legal Today
Drink driving charges can have serious consequences, affecting your ability to drive, work, and travel. If you need expert legal representation, contact our experienced Central Coast drink driving lawyer for a free initial consultation free initial consultation to discuss the best course of action for you.