By Mark J. Powell, Esq.As we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this month, please use caution driving. Pennsylvania has very strict laws for individuals who drink and drive. If your blood-alcohol level is more than .08, you are presumed to be impaired. Depending on your body size and your tolerance level, you can reach a .08 BAC with only a few drinks. Even stricter rules apply for drugged driving. Essentially, Pennsylvania has a near ZERO tolerance level for any illegal drugs in your system while driving.
You may also be convicted of impaired driving while taking certain prescription medication if the therapeutic levels are elevated at the time of driving.
Mandatory minimum jail sentences apply for blood-alcohol levels over .10 and any illegal impairment as a result of drugs. If you intend to celebrate, the safest way home is to get a designated driver, take an Uber or taxi, or call a friend for a safe ride home.
