Liam_snorkel said:
My mrs got done at 0.052 (picking me up from a night out) and she is the most risk-averse person I know. There is no way she would get behind the wheel if she thought she was even close to being over. Got a fine and a suspension, and now will not drive even after one wine hours before.
Having Said all that, I think 0.05 is about right because its enough to catch you out after having a couple and well before you're actual intoxicated. Above 0.08 the suspension is immediate and penalties much harsher because you're legally defined as intoxicated, and to paraphrase Donske when you're 0.08 you know you're under the effect and should definitely not get behind the wheel.
.052? Shiiiiit,
that is what I call unlucky.
Would've been a disqualification, not a suspension, and it's over .100 that you get an immediate roadside suspension, and that ends when you get disqualified.
Suspensions are from DTMR, for demerit points, or a high-speed (40kmh+) infringement.
Disqualifications are from the courts, for DUI, unlicensed driving, dangerous driving, and a few other things.
If you get suspended, then you simply start driving again after it ends.
If it's a disqualification, you need to renew your licence before you start driving again, even if you've got 4 years or so before it expires.
Try explaining that to someone who's been pinged for driving on an expired licence, been given a notice to appear, and straight away dropped $148.80 on a 5 year licence before going to court and getting a 1 month disqualification... Fun times.