Maine OUI

A Maine OUI charge, which means Operating Under the Influence, will have you facing jail time, fines, and a drivers license revocation. As in other states Maine views driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs as a very serious crime, and creates some strong consequences for those convicted.

Even for Maine OUI first offenders, if your blood alcohol levels are .08% or higher, you are considered guilty by the Maine per se law. After you are arrested, you only have ten days to file an appeal or you will lose your ability to drive. You should contact a Maine OUI lawyer to help you with this appeal to increase your chances of success at the DMV.

Here's what you can expect as far as punishments go should you get convicted of a Maine OUI.

First Offense Maine OUI

First Maine OUI offenses mean offenses that are the first to happen in a ten year time period (10 years is the look back period in Maine). If you are a first offender, you can face the following consequences:

• 90 day suspension of license

• $500-$2000 fine

• Up to 364 days jail time (no minimum required)

First offenders are also subject to aggravating circumstances. Aggravating circumstances cause enhanced punishments above and beyond the 'standard' 1st offense. Maine OUI aggravating circumstances include:

• BAC levels over .15

• A minor in the car

• Speeding more than 30 mph over the speed limit

• Trying to run from the police

• Failing to take the BAC test

• Being a minor

Repeat Maine OUI Offenders

Maine OUI laws are very tough on repeat offenders. Here is a summary of the consequences faced: 

Second Offense Maine OUI

• Jail time of at least 7 days
• Up to $700 in fines
• Drivers license suspension for 18 months

Third Offense Maine OUI

• Up to 5 years in jail (30 days minimum)
• Fines between $1100 and $5000
• Drivers license suspension for 4 years

OUI Education Requirements in the State of Maine

A Maine OUI also carries an education requirement when there are aggravating factors present. There are two programs in the state of Maine. The first is the Driver Education Evaluation Program. The second is the Weekend Intervention Program. At these programs, you will be assessed and be assigned treatment if you are found to have an alcohol problem. 

SR22 Insurance

Remember that your Maine OUI costs do not stop once you have paid your court ordered fines, fees, and penalties. Your insurance carrier will also increase your premiums due to a new high risk auto insurance policy that's required.  After a Maine OUI offense you'll have to get what's called an SR-22 insurance policy for a period of 3 years and possibly an ignition interlock device installed as well. Both require ongoing payments and monitoring. 

Get a free no obligation Maine SR22 insurance quote here

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