Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI/DWI) is a serious offense in Nigeria, and the penalties for this crime can be severe.
In addition to fines and jail time, drivers who are convicted of DUI/DWI may also lose their driver’s license. There are alot of things surrounding this penalty against the law. Read on to learn more about it.
How Much You will Pay
The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit in Nigeria is 0.05%. This means that if your BAC is 0.05% or higher, you are considered to be legally intoxicated. If you are caught driving with a BAC of 0.05% or higher, you could be fined up to N50,000 or imprisoned for up to two years.
In addition to the fines and jail time, drivers who are convicted of DUI/DWI may also lose their driver’s license. The length of the license suspension will depend on the severity of the offense.
First-time offenders may be suspended for up to six months, while repeat offenders may be suspended for up to two years.
Driving under the influence of drugs is also a serious offense in Nigeria. If you are caught driving under the influence of drugs, you could be fined up to N50,000 or imprisoned for up to two years. You may also lose your driver’s license for up to two years.
Drivers who are convicted of DUI/DWI may also be required to attend a driver improvement program. These programs are designed to educate drivers about the dangers of drunk driving and to help them develop strategies for avoiding drunk driving in the future.
Some Additional Cost and impacts of Driving under Alcohol or Drug Influence
i. Legal Penalties
Beyond the legal penalties, driving under the influence can lead to additional financial burdens and some of them include:
ii. Accident-related costs
This includes expenses for vehicle repairs, medical bills, and legal fees if involved in an accident.
iii. Lost wages
Time spent in court, jail, or recovering from injuries can result in lost income.
iv. Societal Impact
Driving under the influence not only endangers the driver but also poses a significant risk to other road users. It contributes to road accidents, injuries, and fatalities, with devastating consequences for individuals and families.
Conclusion
It is important to note that the penalties for DUI/DWI in Nigeria can vary depending on the state. Some states have stricter laws than others. It is important to research the laws in your state before you get behind the wheel to hit the road.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a dangerous and irresponsible act. It can lead to serious injuries or even death. It can also strain relationships, damage reputations, and lead to job loss. If you are planning on drinking alcohol or using drugs, it is important to make arrangements for a safe ride home. You can call a taxi, ride-sharing service, or ask a friend or family member to give you a ride, avoiding driving yourself at all costs.
Please remember that driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious crime. If you are caught driving under the influence, you could face serious penalties. It is important to make responsible choices and always have a designated driver.