We are all aware of the dangers of drinking and driving. However, people make mistakes and sometimes, they get behind the wheel and drive when they really shouldn’t. When this happens, getting the advice from a knowledgeable legal professional can help create a solid defense against any charges that might occur. Our Suffolk readers know that being arrested for DWI can be embarrassing. Currently, a man in another part of the state is finding out how it can complicate your life.

A 30-year-old man from Mahopac was stopped on Federal Road when he was spotted driving northbound in the wrong lane on Oct. 19. The officers that stopped him and administered a field sobriety test, which the man failed. He was arrested and charged with failing to drive on the correct side of the road and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

It was not reported whether authorities performed a breath test on the man to determine whether his blood alcohol was above the legal limit of 0.08. But the fact that he failed the field test was enough to arrest him on the suspicion of driving under the influence.

The man posted a $500 bond and was released. His court date was scheduled for Oct. 29. If found guilty, his sentence would depend on a variety of factors such as whether or not this was a first offense or a repeat offense, and whether he has been arrested on other charges related to drugs or alcohol. The more offenses a person has, the more severe the penalties could be.

Whether this is the man’s first offense or not, he has a right to create a vigorous defense. A legal professional can assist with this. This individual can also explain the charges filed, check to make sure all policies and procedures were handled properly and help a person understand the possible punishments for the offense. Once a person is armed with this information, it is easier to determine how best to defend against the charges being levied.

Source: Brookfield Patch, “New York Man Charged with DUI After Driving in Wrong Lane” Aaron Boyd, Oct. 22, 2013