Is a DUI Punishable by Imprisonment?

Driving under the Influence (DUI) has legal and emotional consequences.  Because there has been a rise in injuries and deaths relating to DUI’s, states have imposed harsher penalties and fines for offenders.   A DUI can either be a misdemeanor or a felony crime punishable by imprisonment.  DUI convictions and punishments are governed by state laws. Causing an accident while driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs with a BAC of .04 more and injuring a third party is considered a felony.  If the driver is not at fault, the driver will be charged with a misdemeanor.  Punishments may include jail time in a county or state prison, fines, penalties, suspension of driving privileges and mandatory attendance in a alcohol or drug prevention course or program.  It is recommended that you hire an attorney to defend you if you are charged with a DUI.

Dangers of Drinking and Driving

Just a blood alcohol content of .10, which is a small amount over the limit, can increase your chances of having a car accident 7 times more.   The level at .15 raises your risk to 25 times more likely that you will have an accident.  Drinking and driving is serious.  If you are going to attend a party and you know you are going to drink, you may want to designate a driver or make arrangements to take a cab home.  Having a DUI conviction can ruin your life.  It's a crime punishable by imprisonment if you injure or kill someone.  It stays on your record a long time even if you are able to have it expunged.  It will affect your insurance rates, make your ineligible for government student loans and grants and could affect your ability to obtain employment.  

Hire an Attorney

If you have been arrested for driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol and charged with a DUI, you should hire an attorney immediately.  You can charged with a misdemeanor or felony depending on the circumstances.  The attorney can explain your state laws, fines and penalties and defend and represent you in court.