Drunk Driving Penalties
When it comes to drunk driving penalties, the consequences will differ depending on the state. Each state has a DUI law that maps out different penalties. While penalties will overlap in states, not each state uses the same type of punishments in order to hopefully deter people from becoming repeat DUI offenders. Below are some of the most common drunk driving penalties:
1. Incarceration
If charged with a DUI, the offender may be sentenced to spend time in a state or a county jail. The duration of the incarceration will depend on the offense itself. It can range from just a few days to many months. Those who are repeat offenders are more likely to spend more time in jail. Jail time can also be increased if the offender was charged with another crime such as failure to cooperate with the officer.
2. Fines
Most people who are guilty of driving while under the influence will probably pay some sort of fine. Some will only pay a few hundred dollars while others will be expected to pay thousands. The fines will vary from state to state.
3. DUI Classes/AA
Even if you've never been charged with a DUI, you've probably heard of Alcoholics Anonymous. These classes are meant to be a type of therapy and rehabilitation. States have decided that this is a very effective penalty because many times the offender needs rehabilitation. Rehabilitation is sometimes very effective and will be favorable to the defendant. Many times these classes are to be attended after sentencing, and the frequency of attendance will vary depending on the court's ruling.
4. Suspended license
This is the most common penalty. In the event of a DUI charge, the defendant can lose his license for a certain amount of time. This means that the person is not able to operate a car on his own. The term for a suspended license will depend upon the state law as well as the charges. If the charge is a repeat charge, then the term will probably be much longer or permanent.
5. Community Service
In many cases, community service is used as an alternative to incarceration or probation. Community service includes helping the community in some way that will have an impact. The defendant must do a certain number of hours of community service in order to fully carry out the task. Most community service tasks come along with an assignment given by a certain agency.
DUI and DWI can be life-changing. It's important to talk to a DUI attorney to evaluate your state's DUI laws.
