Oklahoma’s traffic laws categorize driving under the influence as a serious charge and a criminal offense. Although a law enforcement official may conduct an impairment test and arrest a motorist, it does not, however, automatically result in a criminal conviction.
A DUI conviction requires proof of an individual driving with a blood alcohol level higher than the legal limit. As noted by the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals, a judge may review an officer’s evidence, such as the results from a breath or blood test, which a charged motorist has a right to dispute.
A potential employer may request to see a criminal record
If a prosecutor successfully obtains a DUI conviction, the offense may then appear on a driver’s record as a criminal conviction. When applying for a new job or an apartment, a potential employer or landlord may request a background check. A conviction for a DUI may appear in the results.
A survey of more than 3,000 Oklahoma residents revealed that 17% of the respondents did not realize that a DUI classifies as a criminal offense. As reported by KTUL ABC 8 news, 15% of survey respondents admitted to knowingly driving with a BAC above the legal limit. Operating a vehicle in Oklahoma with a BAC of more than 0.08% may result in a DUI charge.
A DUI charge may be disputed to avoid a conviction
To avoid a DUI conviction from appearing on a background check, an individual may require an aggressive defense to dispute a charge successfully. Factors such as improper test-device calibration or a driver’s health condition may have affected a blood or breath BAC result. Road conditions or inclement weather may also have contributed to an officer performing an unwarranted traffic stop.