What Are the Penalties for a DUI?
When you or a loved one are charged with a DUI or DWI-related offense, it can be nerve-racking not to know what kind of penalty you may face. As most people know, penalties vary by state. But what are the most common punishments for a DUI charge?
Here you’ll find some idea of what to expect when you’ve been charged with a DUI. Don’t forget to check out DUI services in Lexington if you need them. Also keep in mind that not only will your punishment be different depending on the state, but also on whether this is a first, second, third, etc. offense.
There are many factors that determine the gravity of a DUI penalty, such as the state in which the offense took place or the record of the offender. First-offense penalties (usually classed as misdemeanors) will of course be lighter than, say, fourth offense penalties (which are often regarded as Class D felonies.) The BAC or blood alcohol concentration of the offender can also increase the penalty if it is high, as well as refusal to take a test to determine the BAC of the driver.
Another factor in punishment is the age of the offender. While drivers under 21 aren’t usually jailed for DUI offenses, they will usually get a zero-tolerance offense, meaning that any alcohol in their system makes them liable to punishment.
And of course, if anyone was hurt or killed in a DUI-related accident, the driver is usually classed as a felon and subject to much more severe penalties.
These are the most common penalties for DUI offenses, but others are emerging. In recent years community service and a period of substance abuse treatment have become more popular options. And there are almost always additional consequences such as increased insurance rates, possible injury or damage to property, and that misdemeanor on your record. All these punishments are designed to help deter and correct offenders so that hopefully such incidents won’t happen again, making the roads safer for everyone else.