Know the impaired driving penalties in Kentucky

Kentucky laws take a harsh stance against drunk driving. It’s imperative that all drivers understand that driving after they’ve been drinking can lead to serious penalties. These penalties are also for other substances, including over-the-counter (OTC) medications, prescription drugs, illegal substances and any items that can adversely impact your driving abilities.

The severity of the penalties you face depends on how many convictions you have for drunk driving within a 10-year period. At minimum, you will have to participate in an alcohol or substance abuse program and your license will get suspended.

On a first offense, the license suspension ranges from 20 to 120 days and you’ll have to go through a 90-day substance abuse program. All subsequent convictions in a 10-year span mandate participation in a one-year substance abuse program. The license suspension is 12 to 18 months on a second conviction, 24 to 36 months on a third and 60 months for a fourth.

On top of these, you might face incarceration and fines. In some cases, the court may issue an order for an ignition interlock device to be installed on any vehicle you drive. This includes work vehicles.

There are other issues that you might face because of a drunk driving conviction. Once you can obtain your license again, your insurance costs will skyrocket. Your employer might not be able to insure you to drive and you might lose your job if it requires a clean driving record.

Working with an attorney who’s familiar with these cases is often beneficial. It’s imperative that you consider all your options for a defense so that you can determine what’s best for you.