If you’re convicted of a DUI in Minnesota, authorities could impose several restrictions on you. These include placing what is known as “whiskey” plates on your vehicle, issuing a B-card on your driver’s license and installing an ignition interlock device that prevents you from starting your vehicle if you’ve had too much alcohol.
The significance of whiskey plates
Whiskey plates usually have a W as the first letter followed by another letter and four digits. Minnesota generally issues these plates because of a vehicle impoundment order or after a DUI conviction. Although many drivers will not know the significance of these plates, law enforcement will, which means they’ll keep an extra eye on you out on the road.
What does a B-card mean?
A B-card involves a designation on your driver’s license that you cannot consume alcohol at all for a specified period. This is usually due to a series of DUI convictions. The driver must abstain from alcohol even when not driving.
How ignition interlock devices work
You may have to get a judge-ordered interlock ignition device for your vehicle if you’ve been convicted of DUI. When you blow into this device, it will determine if you have alcohol in their system. You won’t be able to start the car if your alcohol level registers above a certain level. An interlock device is often used for first- and second-time offenders. Drivers generally stay in the program for three to six years.
Minimizing the effects of a DUI conviction
By retaining an attorney experienced in DUI defense, you could minimize or eliminate fines and other potential legal penalties. Mounting a good defense that finds possible loopholes or law enforcement mistakes in a DUI arrest is key.
