DUI Glossary

BAC Blood Alcohol Content:

The amount of alcohol present in a person’s bloodstream. Driving with a BAC above 0.08% is considered driving under the influence and is against the law.

Chemical Test:

A test used by police to determine blood alcohol content. The most common chemical tests are breath tests and blood tests.

DAI Driving After Imbibing:

A popular alternate term for DUI in Pittsburgh.

DUI:

Driving Under the Influence: otherwise known as drunk driving.

FST Field Sobriety Tests:

Roadside tests that you may be asked to perform if you have been pulled over on the suspicion of DUI. Though there are several tests available, the most common are the One Leg Stand, Walk and Turn, and Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus tests. FSTs are not legally required, and are often highly inaccurate.

Habitual Offender:

If you are arrested and convicted of multiple DUI offenses within a specific amount of time, you could be labeled a “habitual offender.” This could lead to harsher charges and sentencing in the future.

High BAC:

Anyone with a BAC over 0.10% is considered to have a high BAC. “Highest BAC” is noted as 0.16% and over. If you are arrested with high BAC levels in Pittsburgh, you could be subject to harsher penalties.

Implied Consent:

This law dictates that, just by actively acquiring a driver’s license, you automatically consent to chemical tests if arrested for DUI.

Ignition Interlock:

This device, when properly installed, will stop a vehicle from starting if it detects a BAC over 0.02% on the driver’s breath. Ignition interlock devices are often required as part of sentencing after a DUI conviction.

Per Se Laws:

These laws only require a BAC of or over 0.08% to warrant an arrest for DUI. This means that you can be arrested for DUI even if you are not noticeably “intoxicated.”

Reckless Driving:

Driving in an extremely dangerous manner, such as swerving or driving at extremely high speeds.