Property Damage and DUI Charges

DUI charges may stem from property damage caused by a vehicle operated by someone who has a BAC level higher than the state’s limit. Individuals who are driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs may be stopped by police on the road if the individual displays behavior that gives the officer probable cause of driving under the influence. However, in situations where property damage done, a DUI test may be conducted at the scene to determine if the damage was result of intoxication.

Key Factors in DUI Charges

In situations where DUI charges are filed against someone who has damaged or destroyed property, the individual is likely to face criminal and civil litigation. In most states, the laws associated with driving under the influence are more significant when an accident of any type occurs, including a property damage claim. Criminal penalties are even more significant if someone was hurt in the accident.

In addition to this, some property damage claims may be of a high enough value that the charge may be a felony charge. This may be brought against the individual if the damage value is high enough or the damage is to property and life. The consequences of such a case can have life altering effects, including:

• Significant files, often including the costs to repay any damaged property
• Jail time may be awarded, especially in felony cases
• Loss of license and driving privileges may also occur.
• The individual may be required to install an ignition interlock device on vehicles at their home.
• The individual may be ordered to rehab, addiction counseling or DUI courses

In many situations, the driver’s insurance company will pay for costs associated with the property damage, assuming the coverage the driver has is enough to do so. In some situations, the coverage will not be enough. At that point, the owner of the property damaged in the accident can file a civil lawsuit against the DUI driver. The individual may be ordered to pay for the damaged property and other penalties if deemed by a court of law that the individual is responsible for them.

Hire an Attorney

When facing DUI charges for property damage, individuals should hire an attorney. The attorney will ensure that all facts and details of the case are presented properly. In addition, an attorney can help plead the driver’s case and in some cases help get the charges reduced. In all situations, legal help is the ideal route to take to ensure the case is treated properly in a court of law.