DUI Related Offenses

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a significant charge that comes with serious legal consequences. When a driver causes an accident, injures someone, damages property, or attempts to flee the scene, the charges can escalate quickly. The severity of penalties often depends on the circumstances surrounding the case and the number of offenses involved. Some related charges to a DUI include hit and run, fleeing the police, public intoxication, and violations of Pennsylvania’s implied consent laws.

Public Intoxication

What is Public Intoxication?

In Pennsylvania, public intoxication is illegal when a person displays clear signs of being under the influence of alcohol or other substances in a public place and poses a danger to themselves or others. This behavior can involve:

• Annoying or disturbing others in the vicinity.
• Putting yourself in harm’s way.
• Putting other people at risk.

Defining “Public Places”

A public place, as defined by the law, includes any area accessible to the general public, even if it is privately owned but open for public access. Examples include common areas in apartment complexes or a gated community. If you cause a disturbance in such locations, you may face public intoxication charges.

Pennsylvania Penalties for Public Intoxication

Public intoxication is classified as a summary offense in Pennsylvania. Penalties may include:

• For a first offense: A fine of up to $500.
• For subsequent offenses: Fines may increase beyond the initial amount.

Hit and Run

What Happens During a Hit and Run?

A hit and run occurs when someone involved in an accident, particularly after consuming drugs or alcohol, decides to flee the scene to avoid legal repercussions. Leaving the scene without taking responsibility significantly increases penalties. Judges and prosecutors view hit-and-run offenses as very serious crimes.

Penalties for Hit and Run in Somerset

The severity of a hit and run depends on the outcome of the accident:

1. Property Damage Only

• Classified as a third-degree misdemeanor.
• Punishment may include up to 1 year of imprisonment and fines of up to $2,500.

2. Causing an Injury

• Escalates to a third-degree felony.
• Punishment includes up to 7 years in prison and fines as high as $1,000.

3. Causing a Fatality

• Classified as a third-degree felony.
• Conviction carries up to 7 years of imprisonment and fines of up to $2,500.

If you are facing such charges, contacting a seasoned Somerset DUI attorney to handle your case is highly advisable.

Fleeing the Police

What Constitutes Fleeing the Police?

Being pursued by emergency lights or sirens can be frightening, especially if drug or alcohol consumption is involved. Sometimes, panic leads drivers to avoid pulling over, directly violating Pennsylvania law.

Signals to Stop

Failure to respond to any of the following signals can lead to charges of fleeing or eluding the police:

• Verbal orders from law enforcement.
• Sirens or flashing emergency lights.
• Hand gestures indicating you should stop.

Legal Consequences in Somerset

Fleeing the police carries severe legal repercussions in Somerset:

1. General Offense

• A second-degree misdemeanor.
• Punishable by up to 2 years in jail and fines as high as $2,000.

2. High-Speed Chases or DUI-Related Incidents

• Upgraded to a third-degree felony.
• Penalties include up to 7 years of imprisonment and a minimum fine of $15,000.

Additionally, this crime can result in the suspension of your driver’s license. Retaining a reliable Somerset criminal lawyer can help you build a strong defense.

Implied Consent Law

What Does Implied Consent Mean?

Pennsylvania’s Implied Consent Law mandates that individuals with a driver’s license must submit to blood, breath, urine, or chemical testing at an officer’s request. Drivers may decline field sobriety tests, but refusal of chemical testing comes with automatic consequences.

Penalties for Refusal Under Implied Consent

Before charges related to implied consent can proceed, the officer must issue a warning explaining the consequences of refusal. A failure to provide this warning makes the charge invalid. Penalties for test refusal include:

• Initial Violation
  • License suspension for a minimum of 1 year.
• Subsequent Violations
  • License suspension extending to 18 months.

If you encounter implied consent charges, seek immediate assistance from a trusted Somerset DUI attorney who knows how to handle complex DUI cases in Pennsylvania.

Facing Charges? Contact a Somerset Criminal Lawyer

If you’ve been charged with a DUI or any related offense, it’s essential to have the right legal representation. The experienced attorneys at [Logue Law Group] are here to help. Our reputable Somerset criminal lawyers will evaluate the specifics of your case, challenge prosecution claims, and advocate for the best possible outcome.

To schedule your free consultation, call (844) PITT-DUI or connect with us online. Located in Somerset, we proudly assist clients throughout Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia with professionalism and dedication.