It is important for individuals accused of drunk driving to understand that they face serious consequences and penalties but they may wonder what they are. Specific penalties and consequences associated with driving while intoxicated vary by state but there are some general penalties and consequences that are common. First, it is important to note that individuals accused of drunk driving face possible criminal penalties and administrative consequences associated with a DUI charge.
Individuals accused of drunk driving face potential criminal penalties including jail time and potential administrative consequences including the loss of their driver’s license. Drivers accused of drunk driving also likely face fines and other penalties and consequences that can be costly. One requirement driver’s accused of a DUI may face is DUI school or the requirement to complete drug or alcohol treatment.
Another requirement individuals accused of drunk driving may face is the requirement that they install an ignition interlock device on their vehicle to continue to be able to drive. An ignition interlock device analyzes the driver’s breath after the driver blows into it and measures the driver’s blood alcohol content level. If the driver’s blood alcohol content level is measured too high, the vehicle will not start. Additional penalties may apply for individuals accused of multiple DUIs.
Because drunk driving can have a significant impact on the day-to-day work life, personal life and future of an accused individual, it is important for accused individuals to know how to respond to both the criminal and administrative aspects of the charges they are facing. Criminal defense rights apply in all cases when an accused individual is facing criminal charges, including drunk driving charges, so it is necessary for accused individuals to know how to use those rights to protect themselves.
Source: DUI.findlaw.com, “Drunk Driving Sentencing,” Accessed Oct. 31, 2017