Our speaker for June 7 - Doug Ridley

Doug Ridley, of The Law Offices of Douglas Ridley, gave a presentation on DUIs in Ventura County.  Prior to going into private practice, Doug was a Ventura County Deputy District Attorney.  Doug is the charter President of the Moorpark Morning Rotary Club and is working on four years of perfect attendance. 

Approximately 100 DUI complaints are filed daily in Ventura County.  The statute that applies to DUIs, Vehicle Code section 23152, has two parts.  If your blood alcohol level is less than .08, then you are subject to a charge of driving while impaired.  If your blood alcohol level is .08 or higher, then you are subject to a charge of driving while under the influence. 

As the body is absorbing the alcohol, your blood alcohol level rises.  Thereafter, it is followed by a plateau period.  Once your body starts eliminating the alcohol, then the blood alcohol level decreases.  Genetics, weight, gender, how much food is in your stomach, the medications that you are on, and other factors determine how fast this process happens.

Ventura County is known as the toughest county in the country when it comes to DUIs.  If convicted, you will usually serve at least 48 hours in jail, pay fines of approximately $3,700, have to take a driver’s course, have your license suspended for six months or more, and be put on probation for three years.  You may also have to have an administrative hearing at the DMV to get your license back.  Doug’s advice is to simply avoid this by having a friend drive or getting a taxi.

Thank you Doug for this important message.

Deborah A. Perkins