DWI & Traffic Offenses
The seriousness of a charge of Driving While Impaired and other Traffic Violations in North Carolina
Many people assume that traffic offenses are minor inconveniences, but in North Carolina, charges like Driving While Impaired (DWI) or even speeding tickets can have serious and lasting consequences. From fines and license suspensions to increased insurance premiums and potential jail time, these charges can significantly impact your daily life, career, and financial stability.
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At The Law Office of Bryan A. Corbett, PLLC, we understand how overwhelming and stressful these charges can be. We're here to help you fight back, protect your driving record, and limit the consequences.
What is Driving While Impaired (DWI) in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, you can be charged with DWI if:
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Your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher (0.04% for commercial drivers).
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You are under the influence of drugs or alcohol that impair your ability to drive.
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You are under 21 and have any amount of alcohol in your system.
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Penalties for a DWI conviction may include:
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Fines ranging from $200 to $10,000 depending on the severity and level of the offense.
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Jail time from 24 hours to several years (depending on prior offenses and aggravating factors).
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License suspension or revocation (minimum of 1 year for first offense).
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Ignition interlock device installation.
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Substance abuse assessment and treatment programs.
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A DWI conviction stays on your criminal record and driving record and can lead to long-term increases in your insurance premiums and even employment consequences, especially for those with driving-related jobs.
Common Traffic Offenses and Their Consequences
North Carolina uses a point system to penalize drivers for traffic violations. There are two types of points:
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Driver's License Points: Used by the DMV to monitor driving habits and determine license suspensions.
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Insurance Points: Used by insurance companies to determine rate increases.
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DWI (first offense)
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License Points = Automatic Suspension
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Insurance Points = 12
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Driving While License Revoked
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License Points = 8
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Insurance Points = 8
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Speeding over 75 mph in a zone under 70 mph
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License Points = 4
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Insurance Points = 4
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Reckless Driving
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License Points = 4
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Insurance Points = 4
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Hit and Run (property damage)
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License Points = 4
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Insurance Points = 3
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Following Too Closely
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License Points = 4
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Insurance Points = 2
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Illegal Passing
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License Points = 4
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Insurance Points = 2
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Speeding (10 mph or less over limit under 55 mph)
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License Points = 2
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Insurance Points = 1
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Running A Red Light
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License Points = 3
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Insurance Points = 1
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Failure to Yield
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License Points = 3
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Insurance Points = 1
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Expired License or No Driver's License
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License Points = 3
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Insurance Points = 1
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Accumulating 12 license points in 3 years can result in license suspension.
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​Insurance companies in North Carolina use the Safe Driver Incentive Plan (SDIP) to assign points that directly affect your insurance premiums. Just one DWI conviction or serious speeding ticket can raise your insurance rates by hundreds or even thousands of dollars per year.
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For example:
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1 insurance point = up to 30% increase
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4 insurance points = up to 80% increase
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12 insurance points (from a DWI) = up to 340% increase
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Why You Need an Experienced DWI and Traffic Attorney
You don't have to plead guilty and accept the consequences. An experienced attorney can help by:
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Challenging the evidence in DWI and speeding cases (e.g., radar accuracy, breathalyzer reliability)
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Negotiating reduced charges or dismissals
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Preventing points from being added to your license
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Representing you in court, often without you having to appear for minor offenses
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Advising you on license restoration and limited driving privileges
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We know how to navigate the legal system, communicate effectively with judges and prosecutors, and build strong defenses that give our clients the best chance at protecting their records and their freedom.
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