DUI-Related Offenses in Fayette County

Driving under the influence is a significant charge, often accompanied by additional offenses. If a driver causes an accident, inflicts injuries, damages property, or attempts to flee the scene, the implications of a DUI become much more severe. The charges depend on the circumstances, and the penalties increase with the number and degree of offenses. Common charges tied to DUI include hit-and-run, fleeing the police, public intoxication, and implied consent violations.

At Logue Law Group, we understand the challenges you may face when dealing with DUI charges in Fayette County. Our experienced Uniontown DUI lawyers are here to help you every step of the way.

What Is Public Intoxication?

Public intoxication occurs when someone appears drunk or influenced by substances in a way that endangers themselves or others in a public place. This offense is taken seriously in Uniontown and other areas of Fayette County. Public intoxication includes actions such as:

• Annoying or harassing those around you.
• Engaging in behavior that endangers yourself.
• Creating risks to the safety of others around you.

What Qualifies as a Public Space?

According to state law, a “public place” includes areas accessible to the community, even if privately owned. This can include spaces like common areas of apartment complexes or gated communities. Behaving disruptively in such locations may result in a public intoxication charge.

Penalties for Public Intoxication

• Public intoxication is a summary offense and carries fines of up to $500 for a first offense.
• Repeat offenses may bring higher penalties.

Facing these charges can be overwhelming, but a skilled Uniontown criminal lawyer from Logue Law Group can guide you through the process.

Hit and Run Offenses

When drivers cause accidents under the influence of drugs or alcohol, panic often sets in. Many flee the scene to avoid arrest, but this action significantly escalates the penalties. Judges and prosecutors take hit-and-run violations very seriously in Fayette County.

Penalties for Hit and Run

The severity of a hit-and-run offense depends on the specific circumstances of the case, such as the type of damages involved.

1. Property Damage Only

• Classified as a third-degree misdemeanor.
• Penalty can include up to one year in jail and fines of up to $2,500.

2. Accidents Causing Injury

• Classified as a third-degree felony.
• Penalties include up to seven years in prison and fines as high as $1,000.

3. Accidents Resulting in Death

• Also classified as a third-degree felony.
• Penalties include up to seven years in prison and fines of up to $2,500.

If you’re facing such charges, trust a Uniontown DUI lawyer from Logue Law Group to help you craft a strong defense.

Fleeing the Police

Hearing sirens or seeing flashing lights in Uniontown can be a frightening experience, especially after causing an accident under the influence. However, attempting to flee only worsens the situation.

Even ignoring police signals, such as sirens, hand gestures, or emergency lights, can result in charges of fleeing and eluding the police.

Penalties for Fleeing the Police

1. Second-Degree Misdemeanor

• Minimum jail term of two years.
• Fines can reach $2,000.

2. Escalated Cases

• If the situation turns into a high-speed chase, crosses state lines, or involves drivers under the influence, the charge escalates to a third-degree felony.
• Penalties include up to seven years in prison and fines starting at $15,000.

Additionally, fleeing the police often results in a suspended driver’s license. Let a Uniontown criminal lawyer at Logue Law Group provide the legal expertise you need to handle such serious charges.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s Implied Consent Law

Pennsylvania has an Implied Consent Law, which requires all drivers to submit to blood, breath, urine, or chemical testing upon request by law enforcement. Refusing any of these can lead to serious consequences.

Key Facts About Implied Consent:

• While roadside sobriety tests can be declined, refusing chemical testing is not an option.
• Officers must provide warnings about the consequences of refusal. Without this warning, prosecution cannot proceed.

Penalties for Refusing Testing

First-time violations can result in a license suspension of one year, while subsequent refusals lead to an 18-month suspension.

When facing implied consent-related penalties, trust the experienced attorneys at Logue Law Group to expertly defend your rights while focusing on achieving the best possible outcome.

Contact Logue Law Group Today

Navigating DUI-related offenses in Fayette County can be daunting, whether it involves public intoxication, fleeing the police, or other charges. The legal professionals at Logue Law Group are here to provide steadfast support, aggressive defense, and expert legal guidance.

Whether you need a Uniontown criminal lawyer, we are here to help. Call us for a free consultation at (844) PITT-DUI or reach us online. Trust us to stand by your side and fight for your case with determination and integrity.