What Are the Different Types of DUI Charges That Are Filed Today?
Have you ever wondered what the consequences are of driving under the influence? The answer may depend on the severity of the DUI case. From having a license suspended to going to jail, the outcome may hinge on the context and amount of damage caused.
Keep reading to learn about the different types of DUI charges that are filed!
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New Offenders May Face a First Offense DUI
If you’re driving home after a holiday party feeling buzzed, you may not think it’s a big deal. But if a police officer spots erratic driving from you, they may pull you over and administer a breathalyzer. An alcohol reading above the legal limit can result in a first offense DUI.
Erratic driving, such as swerving over a lane line, can put those around you at risk. And driving under the influence can result in a misdemeanor charge.
The level of repercussions you face may depend on the level of alcohol in your blood. For levels just above the legal limit, you may end up doing community service for a given period of time.
Higher levels of alcohol may result in fines or a suspension of driving privileges for 90 days or more. Both of these consequences can hurt your budget since you won’t have a reliable form of transportation.
DUI Charges Include Felony DUI
Reckless driving that endangers those around you can lead to felony DUI. Especially if you’ve had a DUI charge before, your case probably will be elevated to a felony level. A higher level of alcohol in the blood can move DUI charges to the felony level, as well.
Having children in a vehicle where you are driving under the influence automatically can result in felony charges in some states. Similarly, if you injure someone by running into them while intoxicated, the penalty may be determined by where you live since laws vary by state.
Felony DUI often comes with criminal charges. You’ll need representation from the best law firm to handle case litigation. Turning to the experts at Prentiss Law may help you reduce your sentence.
DUI Manslaughter Will Result in Criminal Charges
If you drive under the influence and kill someone on the road, you may face manslaughter charges, too. This is the worst possible scenario, and it comes with significant jail time. You’ll also be trapped in a criminal case that forces you to relive the experience again and again.
The level of negligence can be either ordinary or gross. In ordinary instances, a driver may cause injury because they are distracted and looking at a device. In gross instances, a driver may strike a biker because they’re on the wrong side of the road.
Know About the Different Types of DUI
Your best bet is to monitor alcohol consumption and steer clear of DUI charges. But if the worst-case scenario happens, you should know what to expect. With a strong legal team, you can minimize damages and get the help you need.
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