Second DUI in PA: Penalties and Consequences
You may think it’s familiar territory if you find yourself facing second DUI charges. You might even reflect upon the consequences you dealt with for the first DUI. It’s easy to think that things weren’t so bad the last time. You might even think it’s okay to not challenge the proceedings for the second time around. However, you can’t rest easy for your second DUI just because the first time didn’t have severe punishments.
The penalties drastically increase for a conviction of second DUI conviction. The threat of losing your license is imminent. You might even be required to install an ignition interlock device and be sentenced to jail time. That’s why it’s better to have an experienced Pittsburgh DUI attorney by your side. They can help you navigate the second DUI charges and work to lessen some of the consequences.
What Comprises a Second DUI Offense?
To determine a second DUI offense, Pennsylvania uses a 10-year lookback period. If your first DUI offense happened within 10 years of the date of your present DUI, then the latest one is considered a second offense. To put it simply, if the date of your first DUI falls within 10 years of the new DUI charge’s date, you’re going to be charged with a second offense.
Penalties for a Second DUI
What are the penalties for a second DUI in PA? Let’s take a closer look.
Increased Penalties
If your blood alcohol content (BAC) is at or above .08, it’s illegal to drive. After your first DUI offense, you face greater penalties if you’re convicted of a second DUI.
On a second DUI conviction, if your BAC is equal to or more than .08 but lower than .1, you can lose your driver’s license. You can also face up to 6 months of jail time. On the second offense, you will be fined $300, while the maximum is $2500. You will also face compulsory alcohol treatment.
If your BAC is .1 or more but lower than .16, the minimum jail time is up to 30 days. The fine ranges from $750 to $5000. If your BAC is or above .16, you face jail time of 90 days to 5 years. The fine ranges from $1500 to $10,000.
The second DUI conviction consequences might seem particularly severe. However, they get worse with a third DUI. A Pittsburgh DUI attorney can fight the charges to maintain a cleaner record.
Ignition Interlock
With the above-mentioned punishments, a second DUI conviction will require you to have an ignition interlock device (IID) on your car. The device will be installed on your car for a year until your driving privileges can be completely restored. The IID is connected to your ignition and only lets the car start if you submit a clean breath sample. It can sound an alert while driving. At this point, you will have to blow again and submit an alcohol-free sample to ensure the car doesn’t shut down. This prevents the driver from using a friend to get a clean sample.
The IID requirement is combined with license suspension. This means it can take up to 2 years before you can drive normally again. Also, you’re responsible for the IID installation and uninstalling cost. If you seek legal counsel from a Pittsburgh DUI attorney, you can avoid these expenses.
A seasoned Pittsburgh DUI attorney might be able to keep you from the harsh consequences that await you on a second DUI. Get in touch with our expert team of lawyers at Logue Law Group. Our skilled Pittsburgh DUI attorney will advocate for you. Contact us at sean@seanloguelaw.com to set up a consultation.