What can happen if you refuse to take a breathalyzer test when asked by law enforcement?

Refusing to take a breathalyzer test when asked by law enforcement in Maine can result in an automatic suspension of your driving privileges. This penalty is part of Maine's implied consent law, which means that by operating a vehicle, you implicitly agree to submit to a breath or chemical test if a police officer has reasonable grounds to suspect you are driving under the influence. If you refuse the test, the law recognizes this refusal as a serious violation, leading to immediate consequences such as a suspension of your license, even if you are not ultimately charged with DUI. This measure serves to discourage individuals from resisting or evading testing for alcohol or substance levels when operating a vehicle.