Potential Legal Consequences of DUIs
As attitudes toward driving after drinking have changed over the last couple decades, the laws have changed as well to become harsher on people charged with DUIs. In most states, you could face conviction if you have a blood alcohol content level equal to or greater than .08 while behind the wheel, or if you fail a sobriety test conducted by an officer. People under 21 and commercial drivers have even lower legal limits.
Depending on the circumstances surrounding your case, you could face consequences including:
- Impounding of your vehicle
- Fines extending up to several thousand dollars
- Mandated use of an ignition interlock device
- Probation
- Jail time
- Revocation or suspension of your driver’s license
- Community service
- Mandated attendance at substance abuse classes or rehabilitation
Drivers with prior DUI convictions could face more serious penalties for a repeat offense, even if you did not cause an accident due to being under the influence. Even a first offense could be classified as a felony if, for example, you caused an accident that resulted in a death.
In general, DUI charges are taken extremely seriously due to the extreme danger that drunk drivers pose both to themselves and their passengers as well as to other people driving on the road. Although it is not impossible to reduce or eliminate penalties associated with DUI charges, it can be difficult.
This makes it important to seek the assistance of a skilled DUI defense attorney when you’re facing drunk driving charges. Contact dedicated Berks County lawyer David R. Eshelman for sound legal guidance.