Can You Get a DWI in a Parked Car?

Driving while under the influence is not only illegal, but it is also highly dangerous to you and anyone else that may come into contact with you while you are intoxicated behind the wheel. Many people may be surprised to learn that even if a car is parked, they may still be charged with a DWI in Minnesota.

If you have been charged with a DWI while in a parked car in Minnesota, the trusted criminal defense lawyers at Knutson + Casey may be able to help you build a strong defense. It is important to understand your rights in regards to being charged with a DWI in a parked car and how our legal team may be able to help.

How Can You Be Charged With a DWI in a Parked Car in Minnesota?

When you drive while under the influence, you may be charged with a DWI and face serious penalties. However, you may also face these same penalties even if you are caught under the influence in a parked car. While some drivers may think that parking their car and attempting to sleep or wait out their intoxication will help, the reality is that you will likely still have a BAC level that is too high to operate a vehicle safely when you get ready to start your car back up.

When an individual is found intoxicated in the driver seat of their vehicle with the car turned on or the key in the ignition, law enforcement may still arrest you under the pretense that you intended to operate the vehicle even though it was in park. Even if your car is parked and not moving at the time, you may still be charged with a DWI if you are considered in physical control of the vehicle. If you are arrested for being under the influence while in a parked car, you may face the following penalties:

  • Costly fines
  • Court-ordered substance abuse programs
  • Jail time
  • License suspension
  • License revocation
  • Probation

Contact a trusted Minnesota criminal defense lawyer to better understand your options in regards to building a strong defense for your DWI case.

How a Criminal Defense Lawyer May Help With Your DWI Case in Minnesota

If you have been arrested for a DWI while in a parked car in Minnesota, a criminal defense lawyer may be able to help with the following defense options:

  • There was someone else who had physical control of the vehicle
  • You were sitting in the backseat of the vehicle
  • The keys were far away from you, and the vehicle was in park and turned off

If you are unsure what your best option is after being charged with a DWI in a sitting car, contact a Minnesota criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.

Speak With a Southern Minnesota DWI Lawyer as Soon as Possible

When you have been charged with a DWI in a parked car, it is important to seek legal assistance as soon as possible to get started on your defense case. Fortunately, the experienced team of lawyers Knutson + Casey have helped thousands of clients through the Minnesota criminal defense legal process. Our innovative approach uses big firm power combined with the focus of one trusted attorney who personally sees your case through from start to finish.

If you have been charged with a DWI in Minnesota, let us fight for you. Call Knutson + Casey at (507) 344-8888 or complete a contact form to request a free consultation today.