What is the consequence of refusing to take a breathalyzer test when asked by law enforcement?

Refusing to take a breathalyzer test when requested by law enforcement in North Carolina results in an automatic license suspension for one year. This consequence stems from the state's "implied consent" law, which stipulates that by operating a vehicle, drivers agree to submit to testing for blood alcohol content if they are suspected of driving while impaired. When a driver refuses to comply with this request, law enforcement has the authority to impose a penalty.

The rationale behind the automatic license suspension is to discourage individuals from refusing testing, as this refusal can complicate law enforcement efforts to determine intoxication levels and ensure road safety. As a result, the penalty serves as both a deterrent and a means of enforcing compliance with the law regarding impaired driving.