Drink driving laws in Victoria are strict and can carry serious penalties, including fines, licence suspension, alcohol interlock conditions and, in some cases, imprisonment. The applicable blood alcohol limit depends on your licence type, and even low-range offences can result in court action.
If you have questions about blood alcohol limits, breath testing, or drink driving charges, Slades & Parsons can answer your questions and guide you through the process.
The legal limit is 0.05% BAC for full licence holders. Learner, P-plate, and commercial drivers must have 0.00%. Exceeding this can result in fines, licence loss, or court action. It’s important to know your limit before driving to avoid serious penalties.
Not recommended. Even one drink can push some people over the limit, depending on weight, gender, and time since drinking. There’s no guaranteed safe amount. Always consider alternative transport if you’ve had any alcohol.
Refusing a test is a serious offence. Police can cancel your licence on the spot, and you may face heavier penalties than if you’d failed the test. Legal consequences can include fines, court appearances, and even imprisonment.
Roughly one standard drink per hour, but it varies for everyone. You can still be over the limit the next morning after heavy drinking. Factors such as food, hydration, and metabolism affect how quickly alcohol is eliminated.
Penalties depend on your BAC and licence type, typically fines, licence suspension, and alcohol interlock devices. High-range or repeat offences can lead to jail. Repeat offenders face stricter conditions and longer disqualification periods.
Through random breath tests (RBTs) and, if positive, a secondary breath or blood test to confirm your BAC level. These tests provide evidence that can be used in court if charged.
Yes. A drink driving lawyer can review the test procedure, timing, and evidence to identify possible defences. Having legal representation can improve your chances of a reduced penalty or case dismissal.