That's right, it is not illegal or any more consequential to refuse a breathalyzer test so long as you consent to a blood test. Yes, you will probably have to be taken into custody to the police station to get your test, but in the time it takes to get you there, your BAC could easily drop from a .10 to a .08 while you are being transported and tested. Should you fail the breathalyzer you could regret your choice for quite some time.

NC DUI LAWS

North Carolina has some of the toughest DUI/DWI laws in the country

North Carolina has the "Booze It and Lose It" Campaign-- helps bring awareness of the problem of drinking and driving and removing drunk drivers from the roads. Numerous check points are set up around the state using state of the art equipment to help stop drunk driving. NC was the 1st state to use the campaign and is now used nationwide to help curb drunk drivers.

1st time Offender

• Jail--minimum amount of time is 24 hours and can the most can be 2 years, Fines range from $200-$4000, North Carolina drivers license suspended generally anywhere from 6 months to 1 year.
• Violation of the Zero Tolerance Law: Class 2 misdemeanor and suspension of license for 1 year.
• Vehicle impounded up to 10 days and offender is responsible for costs associated with impoundment.
• DUI school: Required, the amount of counseling is determined by many factors including your breathalyzer level and whether you were cooperative to take the breathalyzer
• Offender may be placed on Probation based on the judges discretion
• Community service may be used at the judges discretion in lieu of jail time

A DUI stays on the offenders record for 7 years