Introduction
Drink driving remains a serious offence in Queensland, with strict laws in place to deter drivers from getting behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol. However, when it comes to repeat drink driving offences, the penalties escalate significantly, reflecting the heightened risk and potential harm to the community. This guide aims to shed light on the consequences of repeat drink driving offences in Queensland and why securing legal advice is crucial for anyone facing such charges.
What Constitutes a Repeat Drink Driving Offence?
A repeat drink driving offence occurs when an individual is charged with drink driving more than once within a specified period. In Queensland, this period is typically five years. Repeat offenders face harsher penalties compared to first-time offenders, as the law assumes that they have not learned from their previous mistakes and continue to pose a risk on the roads.
Consequences of Repeat Drink Driving Offences
- Increased Fines
Repeat drink driving offenders can expect to face substantial fines. The exact amount depends on several factors, including the level of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of the offence and the number of prior offences. For instance, a second offence might attract a fine in the range of $1,500 to $2,000, while subsequent offences could see fines exceeding $2,500.
- Longer Licence Disqualifications
One of the most immediate and impactful penalties for repeat drink driving is licence disqualification. The duration of disqualification increases with each subsequent offence as the minimum disqualification imposed by law increases. Further offences could lead to indefinite disqualification, significantly affecting one's mobility and employment prospects.
- Mandatory Imprisonment
Queensland law stipulates a mandatory prison term for people who have 3 high range drink driving charges within 5 years.
- Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program
Repeat offenders are usually required to participate in the Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program. This program mandates the installation of an interlock device in the offender's vehicle, which requires the driver to provide a breath sample before the vehicle can start.
- Impact on Employment and Personal Life
The consequences of repeat drink driving extend beyond legal penalties. Licence disqualification can lead to job loss, especially for those whose employment depends on driving. This is especially true for repeat drink drivers as the law states that you cannot apply for a work licence if you have had another drink driving charge within 5 years.
Why Good Legal Advice is Essential
Given the severe consequences of repeat drink driving offences, obtaining sound legal advice is critical. An experienced traffic lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in minimising the penalty. Repeat drink driving offences in Queensland carry severe consequences. Increased fines, longer licence disqualifications, mandatory imprisonment, and participation in the Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program are just some of the penalties that repeat offenders can face. However, with the right legal advice, it is possible to navigate these challenges effectively and achieve a more favourable outcome.
If I contacted you what would occur?
If you contact us, then Steven Brough the firm’s founder or our office manager Belinda Smyth will take the call or receive the email or contact form. They have over 50 years legal experience between them, we can provide immediate legal assistance and answer any questions you have. We will discuss your case, provide guidance and send a quote by email with additional relevant information about your charge, all at no cost.
If you want to engage us then it’s easy, there is a form you can complete online in less than 15 minutes. If you don’t want to engage us or want to engage another firm that’s fine, you won’t be hassled and at worst you will just have more information about your charge. Once engaged one of our lawyers will go through your matter and contact you to discuss what the best way forward is to achieve the best results. Every one of our lawyers are very experienced with many hundreds of courts appearances for drink driving charges each.
Remember its critical you get advice before going to court, a drink driving charge no matter the reading will have an impact on you, your family and your employment or business.
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We have a range of articles on drink driving on our traffic law blog. Some of the most recent have included:
