Extreme DUI in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) exceeding 0.10 percent is classified as an extreme DUI. While the legal limit stands at 0.08 percent, surpassing this threshold can lead to significant legal consequences. Convictions for extreme DUI are serious matters and carry harsh penalties that can impact your future.

According to Pennsylvania law, DUI offenses and their corresponding punishments are categorized based on the individual’s BAC at the time of the arrest.

• General Impairment: If a BAC reading falls between 0.08 and 0.09 percent, it results in a General Impairment DUI charge. The penalties for this offense can include up to six months of probation, fines up to $300, and mandatory attendance at alcohol highway safety school.
• High BAC: When a person’s BAC ranges from 0.10 to 0.159 percent, they face potential imprisonment ranging from 48 hours to six months. Additionally, this tier carries a 12-month license suspension and fines between $500 and $5,000.
• Highest BAC: If a person’s BAC is 0.16 percent or higher, the penalties increase significantly. Offenders are subject to incarceration from 72 hours to six months, a 12-month license suspension, and fines between $1,000 and $5,000. A Harrisburg federal criminal lawyer can help you navigate these complex tiers.

Drivers convicted of extreme DUI face escalating fines and longer jail sentences compared to standard offenses. Furthermore, if the incident involves an accident resulting in injuries or property damage, the penalties become even more severe.

Sentencing Enhancements for Extreme DUI Convictions

In Pennsylvania, most Driving Under the Influence charges are treated as misdemeanors. While a standard offender might typically face a maximum prison term of two years, an extreme DUI conviction can trigger enhanced penalties. These enhancements are influenced by prior offenses, including preliminary dispositions, convictions, acceptance into the ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitation Disposition) program, or juvenile consent decrees. Refusing a chemical test, such as a breathalyzer or blood draw, can also lead to additional sentencing enhancements.

During the sentencing phase, the court reviews the defendant’s history for any prior DUI convictions within the past ten years. Refusing a blood or breath test can result in specific punishments, including jail time and fines. The prosecution bears the burden of proving this refusal to secure enhanced penalties. Having a previous DUI on your record elevates the penalty category, leading to harsher consequences. Consulting a Harrisburg DUI attorney is essential to understanding these potential enhancements.

In December 2018, Pennsylvania strengthened its DUI laws, imposing stricter penalties for extreme and repeat offenders. Under these new regulations, any individual caught driving with a BAC above 0.16 percent may face a felony charge depending on prior history. Those facing their third or subsequent DUI within 10 years are also charged with felonies. Additionally, causing a fatality due to drunk driving, particularly with a previous DUI on record, can result in a first-degree felony charge.

If an individual causes the death of another person while driving under the influence and simultaneously driving with a suspended license or without a license, they could face an additional five years in prison. Furthermore, committing aggravated assault by vehicle while driving without a license may lead to an extra two-year prison sentence.

It is critical to share every detail of your case with your legal counsel. Your Harrisburg federal criminal lawyer needs all the facts to build the strongest possible defense. They will explain the charges against you, outline your legal options, and support you through every step of the criminal justice process in Dauphin County.

If you or a loved one has been charged with Extreme Driving Under the Influence in or around Harrisburg, do not hesitate to seek legal assistance. The team at Logue Law Group serves Harrisburg and the surrounding areas in Pennsylvania. To schedule a free initial consultation with a skilled Harrisburg DUI attorney from Logue Law Group, contact us today.

Act quickly! Delaying legal representation can make it more challenging to secure a favorable outcome for your case. Time is of the essence—reach out today at 412-387-6901!