New Jersey takes impaired driving very seriously, and they don't limit that to civilians. A New Jersey State Trooper was arrested at a Monmouth County Service Area off the Garden State Parkway for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in October 2015. The off duty trooper had rear ended another motorist with his squad car. The motorist called the 911 out of fear for her wellbeing and because the officer seemed to be impaired. When you consider the penalties that accompany DWI and the effect it can have on your job, you have a lot at risk when you drink and drive.

New Jersey DWI Testing and Breathalyzers

Many states allow citizens to resist taking a breathalyzer. In some states, you are assumed to be guilty of a DWI if you refuse the test, but that's not how NJ operates. In NJ, if you are pulled over and suspected of operating a vehicle while under the influence, you will be asked to take a breathalyzer. The state assumes you will comply with a breath test request because NJ law states that those who obtain an NJ driver's license have given implied consent when it comes to a breathalyzers. If you refuse to comply you will be charged with a Refusal which carries similar penalties as those charged with a first offense DWI.
In the case of the New Jersey State Trooper, the breathalyzer was taken. The officer insisted that he was sober, but the breathalyzer revealed that his Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) was twice the legal limit. As a result, that officer was suspended without pay.

Penalties of NJ 39:4-50. Driving While Intoxicated

According to NJ 39:4-50. Driving while intoxicated, a DWI, no matter your profession, can carry severe penalties. These penalties can include expensive fees and fines, jail time, and loss of driving privileges. These penalties can impact your life significantly if your profession requires driving, not to mention the cost if you lose your job or are released from your position.

Professional Licenses and DWIs

There are several different types of licenses that require drivers to follow strict guidelines. A CDL is just one such license. Enough DWIs can prevent renewal of these licenses, but the immediate impact is suspension or revocation. Even after the suspension is removed, the driver still faces higher insurance rates and may even have difficulty finding a job in their chosen field. Those who don't drive, but do hold civil or professional positions may find that they have a difficult time maintaining their professional licenses or jobs in general.

When To Contact a DWI Attorney

If you are facing a DWI charge, we can help. Call us at (732) 709-7757  for a free consultation immediately.