DUI Related Offenses

Driving under the influence (DUI) is not just a traffic violation but a serious offense that can lead to additional criminal charges. When drivers cause accidents, injure others, damage property, or flee the scene, the legal implications of a DUI become even more severe. The specific charges, and corresponding penalties, always depend on the details of the incident. Below, we outline some common charges often associated with DUIs. For personalized guidance, reach out to an experienced DUI attorney.

Public Intoxication

Public intoxication is a charge that applies when someone is visibly under the influence of alcohol or substances in a public space and their behavior endangers themselves or others. Mercer criminal lawyers frequently encounter this charge due to the ways it disrupts public peace.

What Constitutes Public Intoxication?

• Behaving in a way that annoys others
• Endangering oneself
• Endangering other individuals

The term “public place” in Pennsylvania covers areas accessible to the general public, such as streets, parks, or even privately owned spaces that are open to common access, like apartment complexes. If disruptive behavior occurs in such areas, you can be charged with public intoxication.

Legal Penalties for Public Intoxication

• Classification as a summary offense
• Fines up to $500
• For second or subsequent offenses, fines may increase

Hit and Run in Mercer

When a DUI leads to an accident, some drivers panic and leave the scene, attempting to avoid arrest. This act of fleeing is known as hit and run, and it can carry severe legal consequences. Judges and prosecutors in Mercer treat hit and run cases with the utmost seriousness, especially when injuries are involved.

Types of Hit and Run Offenses

1. Property Damage Only
   • Classified as a third-degree misdemeanor
   • Penalty includes up to 1 year in jail and fines of up to $2,500

2. Accidents Causing Injuries

– Upgraded to a third-degree felony

– Penalties include up to 7 years of imprisonment and fines as high as $1,000

3. Accidents Resulting in Fatalities

– Treated as a third-degree felony

1. – Punishment can include up to 7 years in prison and fines amounting to $2,500

For drivers facing hit and run charges, consulting a skilled Mercer criminal lawyer is crucial to navigating the complexities of the legal system.

Fleeing the Police

Fleeing from the police after being involved in an accident or being signaled to pull over is a significant offense under Pennsylvania law. Many drivers panic in fear of DUI-related consequences, but attempting to evade the police typically leads to far worse outcomes.

When Does Fleeing the Police Apply?

• Failure to Stop: Ignoring a signal from a police officer (spoken instructions, hand gestures, sirens, or emergency lights).
• High-Speed Chases: Attempting to escape after causing an accident or being signaled to stop.

Penalties for Fleeing the Police

1. Second-Degree Misdemeanor
   • Minimum 2 years in jail
   • Fines of up to $2,000

Third-Degree Felony (if escalation occurs)

– High-speed chases endangering others

– Crossing state lines

– Proved drug or alcohol influence

– Punishment includes a maximum 7-year prison term and fines starting from $15,000

1. – License suspension for an extended period

When charged with fleeing the police, it’s vital to speak with a qualified Mercer DUI attorney to evaluate your options effectively.

Implied Consent Law in Mercer

Pennsylvania’s Implied Consent Law requires all drivers to submit to chemical testing (blood, breath, or urine tests) when lawfully requested by an officer. Unlike field sobriety tests, chemical testing cannot be refused without serious consequences.

Conditions for Implied Consent Charges

• Officers must provide a clear warning about the consequences of refusing tests. If this warning isn’t issued, charges cannot proceed.
• Refusal of tests results in strict penalties, including a license suspension of up to 18 months for repeat offenses.

Violating the Implied Consent Law can have long-lasting impacts, making it essential to consult a Mercer criminal lawyer if you’re facing such allegations.

Why Choose a DUI Attorney

Every DUI-related charge has severe consequences, from jail terms and steep fines to license suspensions. If you’re entangled in any of these offenses, you don’t have to face this alone. An experienced Mercer DUI attorney like Sean Logue, with Logue Law, can provide the representation you need. With proven expertise in DUI regulations and procedures, Sean Logue and his skilled team will protect your rights and pursue the best outcome for your case.

Get Expert Legal Support

Contact Logue Law for a free consultation at (844) PIT-DUI or connect with us online. Our team proudly serves Mercer, Mercer, and West Virginia, offering dedicated legal guidance and relentless advocacy.

Don’t wait to secure the help you need. Reach out to a trusted Mercer criminal lawyer today and protect your future.