The outgoing Napthine government implemented new drink driving laws into Victoria before departing. These laws came into effect from 1 October 2014, and impose an interlock condition of at least six months for all drivers caught with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.07 or above.
Interlocks are costly and annoying, with private companies running the rental of the interlock. If you can’t afford an interlock, then you can’t drive. If you have a drink driving charge against you, contact Vanessa Ash immediately to fight for your licence back, or for penalties to be lowered.
Previous laws meant that the court was responsible for deciding on interlock conditions at its discretion for full licence holders aged 26 or over, unless the BAC was 0.15 or more. Discretion has been taken away from the courts.
Learner and probationary drivers with a BAC of < 0.05 get a six month licence suspension with an interlock condition – previously, this offence carried with it 10 demerit points and a fine. Anyone with a full licence aged over 26 or with a BAC of < 0.07 will still receive this penalty of 10 demerit points and a fine.
The only way around this is to contest the charges successfully, which may be possible. Give us a call to discuss your drink driving charges and see what can be done.
Get proper legal advice for your drink driving case. Call Vanessa Ash and Associates today.