DUI Rules & Regulations

Understanding DUI laws is crucial to navigating legal situations effectively, especially given Pennsylvania’s evolving regulations. The following outlines essential updates and changes to DUI laws, with a focus on Indiana, PA. From new ignition interlock requirements to stricter penalties for repeat offenses, this guide will help you stay informed.

Major DUI Law Changes

August 2017 Update

Pennsylvania introduced significant changes to its DUI laws in August 2017, making it mandatory for first-time offenders to install an ignition interlock device. Here’s what you should know about this requirement:

• Ignition Interlock Device:
  • This device checks a driver’s Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) before starting the vehicle.
  • The cost of installation is approximately $100 per year, and the device must remain in place for at least 12 months.
  • Drivers must blow into the device, which allows the ignition to start only if the BAC is below the legal limit of 0.08%.
  • If the BAC is high on the first blow, the device locks for five minutes. A second failed attempt results in a 30-minute lockout.
• Driving Permissions:
  • First-time offenders can still drive for work purposes by securing an ignition interlock license.
  • Approved mechanics licensed by PennDOT handle the installation.
• Suspension Adjustments:
  • Previously, a first DUI conviction led to a one-year driver’s license suspension. Under the new law, offenders willing to install the interlock device can regain certain driving privileges after serving a six-month suspension.
  • This new measure also applies to individuals who refuse a blood-alcohol test, reducing their suspension period (from up to 18 months) to six months.
• Rolling Retests to Prevent Tampering:
  • To ensure compliance, the ignition interlock device conducts random tests while the vehicle is in operation.

Before 2017, ignition interlock devices were reserved solely for repeat DUI offenders. With these amendments, even first-time DUI offenders in Indiana, PA, are broadly subject to the requirement.

Reason for the Change

The law evolved to minimize the economic hardships associated with license suspensions. Many offenders lost jobs or faced reduced working hours due to lack of transportation. This led to financial strain, unpaid fines, and many offenders risking additional penalties by driving with suspended licenses. So, if you have been charged with any of the above actions, stop waiting and consult an Indiana PA DUI attorney right away.

These challenges extended beyond finance, too. Parents with suspended licenses often missed family milestones or their children’s activities. By allowing offenders to gain restricted driving privileges, the new law addresses these issues while ensuring safety through interlock systems.

Stricter Regulations for Repeat Offenders

December 2018 Updates

More stringent DUI laws took effect on December 23, 2018, including harsher penalties for individuals with high BAC levels and multiple offenses. Here’s what changed:

• Felony Charges for Repeat Offenders:
  • A third DUI offense with a High BAC (0.16% or higher) now results in felony charges.
  • Fourth or subsequent DUI offenses are also classified as felonies.
• Penalties for DUIs Leading to Fatalities:
  • Cases involving DUI-related fatalities are treated as first-degree felonies.
  • Additional penalties include five years of imprisonment.
• Heightened Fines and Jail Time:
  • Driving under DUI suspension carries steeper fines and longer jail terms:
    • First offense: $500 minimum fine plus up to 60 days in jail.
    • Second offense: $1,000 minimum fine with at least 90 days in jail.
• Aggravated Assault with DUI:
  • Offenses involving aggravated assault now carry an extended prison term of two additional years.

These revisions aim to tackle repeat offenses with severity, ensuring the safety of Indiana, PA’s roads. Engaging an Indiana PA criminal lawyer can help in navigating such cases efficiently.

Why Ignition Interlocks Matter

The ignition interlock system has emerged as a central component of DUI penalties in Pennsylvania, including Indiana, PA. That’s why you need to seek help from an Indiana PA DUI attorney for the best assistance. Here’s how it impacts offenders and contributes to public safety:

1. Prevention Over Punishment:

• By restricting vehicle operation for offenders above the legal BAC, ignition interlocks prevent impaired driving without the need for a complete suspension.

2. Economic Relief:

• Offenders can still commute to work and fulfill financial responsibilities, reducing the likelihood of further legal and financial complications.

3. Accountability:

• Rolling retests promote honesty and compliance, while random screenings prevent tampering attempts.

By choosing an Indiana PA DUI attorney, you can understand your interlock requirements and navigate compliance with the law effectively.

Enhanced Penalties for Extreme DUIs

For extreme DUIs (BAC above 0.16%), penalties escalate quickly. Felony charges often come into play, especially for repeat offenders or cases involving injuries or fatalities.

Key Penalties for Extreme DUI

1. Felony Classification:

• Third and fourth offenses with BAC over 0.16% lead to felony convictions.

2. Higher Fines:

• Extreme DUI offenders face fines of up to $10,000, placing a significant financial burden alongside legal consequences.

3. Mandatory Ignition Interlocks:

• Installation is compulsory for all offenders, even first-time cases.

4. Extended License Suspension:

• Suspensions may range from 12 to 18 months, depending on the severity.

Securing the services of an experienced Indiana PA criminal lawyer can be instrumental in minimizing these penalties.

Key Takeaways

1. First-time DUI offenders in Indiana, PA, must install ignition interlock devices.
2. Refusing a BAC test results in a reduced suspension period, provided offenders comply with interlock requirements.
3. Repeat DUI offenses, particularly with a high BAC, now face felony charges in Pennsylvania.
4. Felony DUIs involve harsher penalties, including up to five years of imprisonment for cases involving fatalities.
5. Ignition interlocks provide economic relief while holding offenders accountable.

Protect Your Rights with an Indiana PA DUI Attorney

Navigating Indiana, PA’s DUI landscape can be complex. With tighter regulations and harsher penalties, hiring an Indiana PA criminal lawyer is essential to protecting your rights and securing favorable outcomes.

The team at Logue Law Group is here to help. Call us at 844-PITT-DUI or visit us online to schedule a free consultation. Time is of the essence when facing DUI charges, so don’t wait to act. Safeguard your future today.

And the best way to do that is to hire an Indiana PA DUI attorney right away.