Extreme DUI

A Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) exceeding 0.10 percent in Pennsylvania is classified as an extreme DUI, while 0.08 percent is the legal limit. Convictions for extreme DUI carry severe penalties. Let’s delve into the different classifications and the corresponding punishments determined by the BAC at the time of the alleged DUI.

• General Impairment: BAC reading between 0.08 and 0.09 percent results in a General Impairment DUI charge. Penalties include up to six months of jail time, fines up to $300, and mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device on the offender’s vehicle.

• High BAC: When a person’s BAC is between 0.10 and 0.159 percent: They face imprisonment for two days to six months, a 12-month license suspension, and fines ranging from $500 to $5,000.

• Highest BAC: If a person’s BAC is 0.16 percent or higher: They are subject to incarceration from 72 hours to six months, a 12-month license suspension, and fines between $1,000 and $5,000.

Drivers convicted of extreme DUI face even higher fines and longer jail sentences. Furthermore, if their drunk driving results in injuries from an accident, they can expect even more severe penalties.

Sentencing Enhancements for Extreme DUI Convictions

Pennsylvania considers most Driving Under the Influence charges as misdemeanors. However, an extreme DUI may lead to enhanced penalties based on prior offenses, such as preliminary disposition, conviction, acceptance of ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitation Disposition), or juvenile consent decree. Refusing a breathalyzer or blood test can also result in additional sentence enhancements.

During the sentencing part of the hearing, the court takes into account any previous DUI convictions within the last ten years. Punishments for refusing a blood or breath test may include jail time and fines. The prosecutor must prove the refusal to obtain enhanced penalties. Moreover, having a previous DUI raises the penalty category, leading to more severe punishments.

Pennsylvania tightened its DUI laws in December 2018, imposing stricter penalties for extreme and repeat offenses. Driving with a BAC above 0.016 percent is now a felony offense, and individuals with a record of multiple DUIs are also charged with felonies. Moreover, causing someone’s death due to drunk driving, especially with a prior DUI on record, can result in a first-degree felony charge.

To add to the gravity of these offenses, if a person kills another while driving under the influence and with a license suspension or without a license at all, they may face an additional five years in prison. Similarly, aggravated assault while driving without a license could result in an extra two-year prison sentence.

It is of utmost importance to disclose all the relevant facts to your Butler PA DUI attorney so that they can provide you with the strongest defense. They will explain the charges against you, present your available options, and offer unwavering support throughout the criminal justice process.

If you or someone you know has been charged with Extreme Driving Under the Influence in Butler or the surrounding areas, seek the assistance of an experienced Butler PA criminal attorney. The Logue Criminal Defense team proudly serves Butler, PA, as well as neighboring areas in West Virginia and Ohio. Contact the skilled Butler PA Criminal lawyers from Logue Law Group today at 1-844-PITT-DUI or (412) 389-0805 to schedule a free initial consultation. Alternatively, you can reach us online.

Don’t delay! The longer you wait to secure legal representation, the more challenging it becomes for an attorney to secure a favorable outcome for you and your case. Waste no time – make the call today!