When a person gets pulled over for a DUI, the incident is considered a very serious matter. The law enforcement community understands that drunk drivers can cause the loss of life, serious injury and property damage. This is why they evaluate individuals who are accused of driving under the influence (DUI). They want to make sure that they are not alcoholics and are responsible enough to remain on the road. The following information will explain what happens when a DUI evaluation takes place.
Why do courts perform DUI evaluations?
All states typically require motorists who have been charged with a DUI to complete a substance abuse evaluation. This evaluation is necessary for figuring out if a charged motorist has a drug or substance abuse problem. The evaluation is important for creating a treatment plan for offenders depending on their circumstances.
One reason why the court system uses this program is to reduce the number of drunk drivers on the road. They also want to deter people with drinking problems from getting behind the wheel of a vehicle. Even a person who only drinks a small amount of alcohol below the legal limit can still do considerable damage while driving.
Courts order DUI evaluations to keep from putting more people in jail or convicted from this offense. Courts typically offer programs that convicted drivers must complete in lieu of going to jail. Finally, a judge will use a DUI evaluation’s outcome to help determine sentencing or how they will prosecute a case. Remember, each state has their own set of rules of how to use DUI evaluation information. Most states will keep this data on file as part of a person’s DUI case.
How is a DUI evaluation performed?
DUI evaluations are carried out by screening a person charged with a DUI and then by assessing their situation. The assessment is normally conducted by a psychologist, social worker, counselor or therapist. A doctor, nurse or even psychiatrist can also conduct the assessment as well.
An assessor will inquire about your:
• Your current drinking habits or drug use.
• Past treatment for alcohol or drugs.
• Family’s current and past alcohol or drug usage.
• They will also inquire about how alcohol and/or drugs impact your life and your perspective about them.
When an assessor evaluates a person, they will use certain tools to evaluate them. The CAGE questionnaire is used to determine if a person is trying to hide alcohol abuse. AUI or Alcohol Use Inventory is another common tool used by assessors. This questionnaire examines a person’s perspective and attitude toward drinking and alcohol in general.
The Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory (SASSI) is used to figure out if a DUI offender is a high risk for an alcohol or drug abuse disorder. Many states have their own testes that they administer as well. Each of these tools are useful for detecting if a person has a serious drinking problem or not. Follow up services are often given by courts if they discover that an accused person has a drinking problem. They will also refer them to a treatment facility if necessary.
Other Factors to Consider when Dealing with a DUI Evaluations
DUI evaluations are normally provided by the courts. However, they can sometimes be charged to a person being accused of this crime. Some people will pay for their evaluation as a part of their court findings. Insurance usually does not cover this type of evaluation because it is related to a criminal offense. You might also be required to bring your arrest documents to the evaluation (police report), your police record, a motor vehicle report and maybe a DUI School Completion Certificate and NEEDS Assessment.
Everyone that takes a DUI evaluation should tell the truth. It will be easy to lie on one. However, if you are pulled over again for another DUI offense, things will look very bad for you. You should be truthful so that you can honestly get through the evaluation process and get help if you really need it. No one wants to deal with a DUI evaluation. If you are required to complete a DUI evaluation, we can help you get through this process. You can call us today at 302-842-2390.
