When is a Driver’s License Suspension Mandated in NC?
North Carolina enforces mandatory license suspensions in some DUI and DWI cases depending on the circumstances and how the driver handles themselves after being pulled over.
Understanding how your actions could automatically trigger a mandated license suspension before getting pulled over can help you avoid the harsh penalty.
When is a Driver’s License Suspension Mandated in NC?
If a police officer pulls you over for driving while intoxicated and requests you take a breathalyzer test, you have a right to say no. However, your license will be automatically suspended if you decline to take the test.
Suppose you take the test and are later convicted of driving while impaired. In that case, North Carolina will enforce a mandatory license suspension for a minimum of one year for first offenses. The mandatory license suspension can last up to four years for second offenses. Finally, the mandatory license suspension in North Carolina may be permanent for third DUI offenses.
Besides a DUI conviction, if you drive your vehicle more than 15 mph over the speed limit while driving at a speed greater than 55 mph or you’re driving faster than 80 mph, North Carolina enforces a mandatory license suspension of 30 days.
If you rack up two speeding charges within one year or you’re speeding while recklessly driving on the same occasion, you’ll lose your license for 60 days.
Regardless of how your license got suspended, if you disobey the mandatory license suspension and drive anyway, you will add a year to your suspension if it’s your first offense. A second offense is two years, and a third offense of driving with a suspended license will enact a permanent suspension.
What Should I Do If I’m Facing A Mandatory License Suspension In North Carolina?
If you’re facing a mandatory license suspension, contact Fay Grafton & Nunez right away. We offer complimentary criminal consultations to help you build the most robust case possible. While some license suspensions are unavoidable, we can help you apply to reinstate your license and take the proper steps to make amends.
