Got caught for drunken driving in Gurgaon - what next?
I made a serious error on Saturday night. Drove some friends to a bar. While I didn't consume a lot as I intended to drive back, I did have two drinks. Got caught regrettably right outside the bar and breathalyser test showed 51.5mg/100ml for which the cop digitally impounded my license and made a challan. He mentioned the license was suspended for 90 days.
I deeply regret doing this, as I have never driven while being drunk and the one time I didn't think this through, I was rightly caught.
I checked the challan info on the e-challan website and license validity. It says info is being sent to court but the license is only digitally impounded. What I am looking to understand is:
- What happens next? Getting varying information online about what happens - some say I will get a link to pay, others say I have to visit the court before a judge. Will I even be notified or do I keep checking the challan status?
- Currently the status mentions being forwarded to a police station. Will it help to visit the thana?
- Can I go to court with the challan? Someone mentioned this, but I don't know if that's even logical.
- I have also recently applied for a US visa. Will this affect my legal history and visa chances?
- Do I need to hire a lawyer? If so, if someone can help me connect, I'll be immensely grateful.
- If I pay the fine, will my license still be suspended?
- Can I legally drive with the digitally impounded license? Will it cause any complications?
Thanks in advance.