As any Granite State resident will tell you, fall foliage season is one of the most popular times to visit New Hampshire. We get people from all over who are eager to experience the stunning spectrum of changing leaves this neck of the woods is known for.
For many people, part of the allure of leaf peeping is the pit stops and watering holes along the way. There is no shortage of breweries, bars, and restaurants dotting these scenic drives and, for some, that’s where the trouble starts.
If you’re charged with a DUI while vacationing in New Hampshire, it can be a stressful and confusing experience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local laws and processes. For that reason, we’re taking you through the basics of what you need to know, should you find yourself in this situation…
Understanding New Hampshire’s DUI Laws
New Hampshire has tough DUI laws that apply to both residents and visitors, which are based on the following:
- Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Limit: The legal BAC limit in New Hampshire is 0.08% for drivers over 21 and 0.02% for those under 21. Commercial drivers have a stricter limit of 0.04%.
Confused about BAC? We break it down for you in our blog post, Understanding the Basics of Blood Alcohol Content.
- Penalties: Penalties can include fines, license suspension, mandatory participation in an alcohol education program, and even jail time, depending on the severity of the offense and whether it’s a repeat offense.
Since 1986, New Hampshire has participated in the Interstate Driver’s License Compact (IDLC), which means a DUI conviction here can impact your driving privileges in your home state as well. In other words, your DUI will follow you, and consequences like fines, license suspension, or increased insurance rates may apply back home.
Why You Need a NH DUI Attorney
If you find yourself facing a DUI charge while on vacation in New Hampshire, hiring an experienced NH DUI attorney can make a significant difference. Given that DUI laws vary from state to state, an attorney who knows New Hampshire’s legal system can provide you with the best possible defense by guiding you through the legal process, ensuring you meet all court requirements, and potentially representing you in court if you’re unable to stay in the state.
Moreover, with the right legal strategy, an attorney may be able to reduce the severity of your charges, resulting in fewer fines, a shorter license suspension, or even dismissal of the case.
If you’re considering a visit to New Hampshire this fall, we urge you to practice safe driving, whether that means relying on a designated driver, using public transportation, or abstaining from alcohol entirely. Still, we recognize that even the best intentions can fall flat, so if you do find yourself in need of legal assistance, we invite you to contact us anytime.Even better — before you pack your bags, add our number, 603-945-5111, to your mobile phone under “lawyer.” Better safe than sorry!
