In Kentucky, your driving privilege can be suspended because of a driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol offense. Thus, you will be unable to legally operate a motor vehicle during the stated period.
Here is what to know about this:
Period of suspension
A first offense within a ten-year period can lead to a six-month license suspension; a second offense within a ten-year period can attract an 18-month license suspension; a third offense within a ten-year period can result in a 36-month license suspension; and a fourth offense within a ten-year period can lead to a 60-month license suspension.
Moreover, Kentucky is an implied consent state. Thus, refusing to submit to testing to determine your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) can trigger an automatic pre-trial license suspension. A judge can suspend your license at your first court appearance. This suspension can last for the duration of your entire court case.
What are your options?
Instead of waiting out the court-ordered suspension time, you can apply for an early reinstatement through the Kentucky Ignition Interlock Program (KIIP). This allows you to reduce your license suspension period by driving with an approved ignition interlock device (IID).
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) requires drivers to meet certain requirements to qualify for KIIP. For instance, eligibility is based on the activities in one’s five-year driver history record. Some convictions on a driver’s record can make them ineligible for an IID.
Note that KIIP violations can result in a driver initially eligible for an IID being removed from the program.
Other options to use when your driver’s license has been suspended include rideshare services, public transportation and relying on loved ones to get around.
Defending yourself against a DUI charge is critical in protecting your driving privileges. Contact our team for more information on defense strategies.