Category Archives: DUI
When Does a DUI Become a Felony?
Many DUI crimes are classified as misdemeanors, but when do the charges rise to the level of a felony? Each state has its own rules regarding DUI punishments, so it is important to be familiar with state law for Pennsylvania if you face DUI charges. Here’s a quick overview of when Pennsylvania classifies a DUI […]
Common Examples of Field Sobriety Tests
Law enforcement officers often use field sobriety tests when they have pulled people over on suspicion of DUI to gauge whether or not the suspect is under the influence of alcohol. Here are a few common examples of these field sobriety tests and how they’re conducted. Horizontal gaze nystagmus This test involves the officer asking […]
What is a DUI Checkpoint?
DUI checkpoints, also known as DUI roadblocks or sobriety checkpoints, are becoming an increasingly popular tool used by law enforcement agencies across the country to help combat widespread issues with drivers being under the influence of drugs or alcohol. But what exactly are these checkpoints and how are they deployed? Here’s a quick overview. What […]
Will Pennsylvania’s Medical Marijuana Legislation Lead to Changes in DUI Law?
It has now been more than a year since the state of Pennsylvania legalized the use of medical marijuana. All people who use medical marijuana in the state must follow warnings about using the substance and driving, and also must carry their medical marijuana cards with them wherever they go. Any drivers using medical marijuana […]
Berks County Among the Most Dangerous for DUIs in Pennsylvania
Fortunately, the number of impaired driving deaths appears to be on the decline in Pennsylvania over the past several years. However, there are still some areas of the state where driving under the influence remains a particular problem. In a ranking based on deaths per 100,000 residents, Berks County ranks as the sixth-most dangerous county […]
Tougher Penalties Now in Effect for DUIs in Pennsylvania
Starting in December, the consequences for repeat drunk driving offenses in Pennsylvania have become much tougher. The new legislation that was passed in October by the state’s General Assembly and then signed by Governor Tom Wolf went into effect in mid-December. The legislation created the first felony charge for driving under the influence (DUI) in […]
Pennsylvania Lawmakers Toughen State’s DUI Penalties
After years of receiving criticism about Pennsylvania’s relative weakness in the area of driving under the influence (DUI) enforcement, state legislators passed a bill in October that would impose stricter penalties on repeat offenders. The legislation is Senate Bill 961. It is expected to levy harsher penalties on those convicted of DUI starting in 2019. […]
Pennsylvania to Ramp Up DUI Enforcement for Halloween
The last few weeks have been busy ones in Pennsylvania when it comes to the enforcement of driving under the influence (DUI). In early October, the Pennsylvania legislature passed a bill that introduces felony DUI charges in the state. Previously, Pennsylvania was one of only four states that did not require felony charges for those […]
Pennsylvania Runs ‘Drive Sober’ Campaign Through Labor Day
Just about every year, Labor Day weekend is one of the most dangerous times of year for drivers — especially on highways. This year, the Pennsylvania division of the American Trauma Society is teaming up with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on a “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign that has already […]
Study: Ride-Sharing Apps Cut DUI Arrests in Philadelphia
Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft have exploded in popularity over the last five years. This is thanks in large part to their convenience. However, their greatest benefit might be the effect they are having on drunk driving — especially in big cities. A recent study focused on driving under the influence (DUI) arrest figures […]
