March 6, 2025 | DUI

Drunk Driving Laws In Kentucky – DUI Basics Explained

Kentucky has detailed legal standards for driving under the influence (DUI), and violating them can lead to serious consequences. Whether you’re a first-time offender or a repeat violator, knowing the basics of the state’s DUI laws can help you understand your rights and obligations.

Strictly speaking, Kentucky considers it illegal to operate a motor vehicle if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. However, you can still face DUI charges if your BAC is lower than 0.08% but you show signs of impairment. Because drunk driving causes countless accidents and fatalities each year, law enforcement takes these offenses very seriously.

Drunk Driving Laws in Kentucky

Kentucky law covers DUI offenses under a specific statute that outlaws operating or controlling a vehicle while your ability to drive is impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of the two. 

Here are some important points:

  • The legal limit for most drivers is a 0.08% BAC
  • For commercial drivers, the limit is 0.04% BAC
  • Drivers under 21 are subject to a zero-tolerance policy, which can mean a 0.02% limit
  • You can be charged even if your BAC is below 0.08% if you appear impaired

Kentucky also recognizes aggravated DUI circumstances, such as driving with a BAC of 0.15% or higher or causing an accident that results in serious injury. These factors can lead to more severe charges and harsher penalties.

Penalties for a DUI in Kentucky

The exact penalties for a DUI conviction in Kentucky vary depending on factors like your BAC, whether anyone was hurt, and how many prior offenses you have. 

Common penalties include:

Kentucky’s look-back period for DUI offenses is typically ten years, meaning any DUI conviction within the last decade can elevate the penalties for a new offense.

What Should I Do if I’m Arrested for a DUI in Kentucky?

The aftermath of a DUI arrest is often overwhelming. However, the truth is that what happens right after your arrest can significantly impact your case. 

Take note of the following:

  • Remain calm when interacting with law enforcement
  • Avoid admitting guilt or volunteering extra information
  • Comply with requests for breath, blood, or urine testing, but understand any legal consequences of refusal
  • Gather information about the time, place, and circumstances of your arrest
  • Contact an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible

Even a first-time DUI can have serious repercussions, so professional guidance is crucial to help you navigate the legal process.

Possible Defenses to a DUI Charge

While DUI laws in Kentucky are strict, it’s not impossible to build a viable defense against the charges. 

Depending on your situation, your lawyer might use one or more of these strategies:

  • Challenging the validity of the traffic stop
  • Disputing the accuracy or calibration of the breathalyzer
  • Questioning the legality of the field sobriety tests
  • Contesting the chain of custody for blood or urine samples
  • Providing evidence of a medical condition that affected the test results

Every case is unique, so it’s important to discuss your defense options with an attorney who understands Kentucky’s DUI laws.

Contact the Lexington DUI Attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers For Help Today

Drunk driving laws in Kentucky impose tough penalties, and even a single DUI conviction can negatively affect your life. However, facing a DUI charge doesn’t mean you have to navigate the legal system alone. An experienced Kentucky DUI attorney can review your case, craft a strong defense strategy, and protect your rights from start to finish.

If you’ve been charged with driving under the influence, don’t wait to seek legal help. By contacting a lawyer as soon as possible, you can take proactive steps toward resolving your case and safeguarding your future.

For more information, contact the DUI attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers. Give us a call today at (859) 569-4014 or visit us at our Lexington law office.

Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers – Lexington
333 West Vine Street #212
Lexington, KY 40507