Whether you learn it in a bar, at work or while browsing online, you need to be careful to take everything you hear or read with caution. There’s a lot of misinformation out there — and some of it spreads very rapidly. This is particularly true when it comes to myths about drinking and driving.
Many of the following myths have existed for years. It is important to understand the truth about these myths to avoid serious criminal charges. Here is what you should know:
Myth #1: You can drive if you did not drink a lot
Truth: A driver could still face criminal charges even with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) below the legal limit. Pennsylvania has a 0.08% BAC limit for drivers 21 years of age or older. However, alcohol affects everyone differently. Even a small amount of alcohol could cause a driver to drive recklessly, speed, swerve or run lights. As a result, a driver’s BAC level could still be considered if they are facing criminal charges.
Myth #2: You can pass breath tests with a penny
Truth: Putting a penny in your mouth won’t cause a breathalyzer test to malfunction. A breath test is a device used to test a driver’s blood alcohol content, and the theory that the copper in a penny will cause the machine to misfire is very pervasive — and entirely untrue. All you would be doing is creating a choking hazard for yourself.
Myth #3: You can drive slowly if you are drunk
Truth: Operating a vehicle while inebriated can still lead to criminal charges, no matter how slowly you drive. In fact, driving too slowly — especially in the dark — can lead to serious accidents, and it is likely to attract the attention of the police if they happen to pass by.
If you are facing a DUI charge, you may need to consider reaching out for professional legal guidance and learning how to build a strong criminal defense.
