If you’re charged with driving under the influence (DUI), you may be wondering what will happen next. The consequences of a DUI offense can vary depending on the state you’re in and the details of your case. However, there are some general things that you can expect after being charged with a DUI offense.
Read on to learn more about the penalties for driving under the influence.
DUI Offense: Understanding DUI Laws
In most states, driving under the influence is a misdemeanor offense. This means that if you’re convicted of driving under the influence, you could face up to one year in jail. You may also be required to pay a fine, attend alcohol education classes, and have an ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle.
However, in other states, driving under the influence is a felony offense. This means that if you’re convicted of driving under the influence, you could face more serious penalties, such as up to five years in prison.
Understanding DWI Laws
Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a separate offense from driving under the influence. In these states, driving while intoxicated is also a misdemeanor offense.
The penalties for driving while intoxicated vary from state to state, but they can include jail time, fines, and the suspension of your driver’s license. In other states, driving while intoxicated is a felony offense as well.
What’s the Difference Between a DUI and a DWI?
The main difference between a DUI and a DWI is the blood alcohol content (BAC) limit. In most states, the BAC limit for driving under the influence is 0.08%. However, in some states, the BAC limit for driving while intoxicated is 0.10%.
Another contrast between a DUI and a DWI is the penalties. In general, the penalties for driving under the influence are less severe than the penalties for driving while intoxicated.
Can You Get a DUI Without Drinking Alcohol?
Yes, you can get a DUI without drinking alcohol. This is because there are other substances that can impair your ability to drive, such as prescription drugs and illicit drugs.
In certain states, driving under the influence of drugs is treated the same as driving under the influence of alcohol. This means that you could face the same penalties, such as jail time, fines, and the suspension of your driver’s license.
If you get a suspended license, but you don’t own a car, you can always get cheap sr22 non owner insurance to help reinstate it.
Don’t Drive Under the Influence
A DUI offense is serious, and it can result in severe penalties. If you’re convicted of driving under the influence, you could face up to one year in jail.
So, if you’re going to drink, don’t get behind the wheel. And if you’re going to take drugs, make sure you know how they will affect your ability to drive. It’s not worth the risk!
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Andrea Parker is a reporter for Zobuz. She previously worked at Huffington Post and Vanity Fair. Andrea is based in NYC and covers issues affecting her city. In addition to her severe coffee addiction, she’s a Netflix enthusiast, a red wine drinker, and a voracious reader.
