State Impaired Driving Laws
Wyoming DUI Penalties – Drunk Driving In The Cowboy State
In Wyoming, the drunk driving charge is officially referred to as “Driving Under The Influence” and shortened as “DUI.” One may be charged with a DUI for not only being over the legal limit of blood alcohol concentration, but also for being impaired while under the influence of controlled substances such as marijuana, cocaine, and other drugs.
The Cowboy State takes drinking and driving very seriously. The legal limit of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in the State is 0.08% (or 80 mg per 100 ml blood), although there are lower limits for commercial drivers (0.04%) and those under the age of 21 (0.02). If you get caught, you might not be driving for awhile and will be looking to learn how to saddle up a horse for your next trip.
If you are charged with an alcohol driving related offense in Wyoming, you are well advised to seek the council of a lawyer or attorney who has experience in defending DUI cases in this State. A lawyer can be of immense help in navigating the Court system as well, he or she could argue for a lesser sentence than what the State asking that the Court impose upon you.
How can you know what your BAC is after having a few drinks? Can you simply estimating it? Although many people believe that “one drink an hour” is safe, this is simply not true. There are far too many factors involved that determine how your body processes alcohol in the bloodstream. Some of these factors include gender, body temperature, percent body fat, how much you have eaten before you consumed alcohol, and others. Many drivers who have been convicted of a DUI report that they were surprised to discover their BAC was above the legal limit.
You can know your BAC if you accurately measure it. You can obtain your own personal breathalizer which will help you make a wise and informed decision about driving after you’ve had a few drinks. This device could save you thousands of dollars in legal fees, increased insurance rates, and of course, the humiliation of a DUI conviction along with saving your driver’s license privileges. Click here for more information.
Wyoming DUI Penalties – First Offence:
If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Wyoming, you are facing a hefty fine as well as possible jail time. The first time you are caught drinking and driving, and are convicted, you could receive a fine of up to $750.00 and/or up to 6 months in jail. As well, your license will be suspended for 90 days. If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was above 0.15%, you will be required to install an ignition interlock device in any vehicle you drive for six months after your license is reinstated.
You may also be required to attend an alcohol assessment.
Second Offense:
If you commit a second offense within 10 years of the first DUI in Wyoming, the penalties become even more severe. You are looking at spending 7 days in jail with the possibility of being sentenced to up to 6 months behind bars. Your fine will be a minimum of $250.00 with $750.00 very likely. As well, your license will be suspended for 1 year and you will be required to install an ignition interlock device in any vehicle you drive for a further year. You will also be required to undergo a substance abuse assessment.
Third Offense:
In Wyoming, if you are caught drinking and driving a third time, and it’s within ten years of your previous conviction, you’ll spend 30 days in jail. You could be sentenced to 6 months. This time, the minimum fine is $750.00 with the courts possibly ordering up to $3,000.00 to come out of your bank account. your license will be suspended for 3 years, and when it is reinstated, you will be required to install and use an ignition interlock device for 2 years. Again, you will need to undergo a substance abuse assessment.
Other possibilities to the Court include putting you on probation, ordering you to attend an inpatient alcohol treatment program as well as alcohol education.
Fourth Offense:
If you’ve committed a fourth DUI in Wyoming, and you are convicted, you are now considered a Felon. You’re looking at up to 2 years in jail and a fine of up to $10,000.00. A lengthy license suspension will follow with the requirement of a lifetime use of ignition interlock device when your license is reinstated.
West Virginia DUI Penalties – Drunk Driving In The Mountain State
In West Virginia, the drunk driving charge is officially referred to as “Driving Under The Influence” and shortened as “DUI.” One may be charged with a DUI for not only being over the legal limit of blood alcohol concentration, but also for being impaired while under the influence of controlled substances such as marijuana, cocaine, and other drugs.
The Mountain State takes drinking and driving very seriously. The legal limit of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in the State is 0.08% (or 80 mg per 100 ml blood), although there are lower limits for commercial drivers (0.04%) and those under the age of 21 (0.02).
You will notice (below) that a first offense for a DUI, West Virginia has relatively light license suspensions and fines, however for subsequent convictions, this State gets much tougher on repeat offenders.
If you are charged with an alcohol driving related offense in West Virginia, you are well advised to seek the council of a lawyer or attorney who has experience in defending DUI cases in this State. A lawyer can be of immense help in navigating the Court system as well, he or she could argue for a lesser sentence than what the State asking that the Court impose upon you.
How can you know what your BAC is after having a few drinks? Can you simply estimating it? Although many people believe that “one drink an hour” is safe, this is simply not true. There are far too many factors involved that determine how your body processes alcohol in the bloodstream. Some of these factors include gender, body temperature, percent body fat, how much you have eaten before you consumed alcohol, and others. Many drivers who have been convicted of a DUI report that they were surprised to discover their BAC was above the legal limit.
You can know your BAC if you accurately measure it. You can obtain your own personal breathalizer which will help you make a wise and informed decision about driving after you’ve had a few drinks. This device could save you thousands of dollars in legal fees, increased insurance rates, and of course, the humiliation of a DUI conviction along with saving your driver’s license privileges. Click here for more information.
West Virginia DUI Penalties – First Offense:
As noted, relative to other jurisdictions throughout North America, West Virginia is fairly “light” on first time offenders of drunk driving offenses. The minimum fine for a first offense is only $100.00 however, $500.00 is possible. If your BAC level was 0.15% or higher, the maximum increases to $1,000.00.
If you were driving a passenger under the age of 16 years old, the minimum fine is raised to $200.00 with the possibility of $1,000.00 maximum.
On your first offense, you will serve time behind bars – minimum of 24 hours, although the Court could sentence you to six months. If your BAC was above 0.15% or drove with a minor under 16, you’ll get a minimum of 2 days in jail.
Your license will be suspended for 15 days, but 45 days if your BAC was 0.15% or higher. Upon reinstatement of your license, you may be required to install and use an ignition interlock device in any vehicle you drive.
Second Offense:
If you were convicted of a first offense in West Virginia and received the minimum sentence possible, you might be just a little shocked at how severe the second offense penalties become. You will wish you owned and used your own personal breathalyzer.
Upon conviction of a second offense, the minimum jail time is 6 months, with a full year being possible. The minimum fine increases ten times to $1,000.00 but the Court could impose up to $3,000.00.
Your license will be suspended for a full year, and you’ll be required to install an ignition interlock device when your license is reinstated.
Third Offense:
If you’re convicted of a third DUI in West Virgina, you’re now considered a Felon. You’ll be going to jail for between 1 and 3 years in addition to your $3,000.00 to $5,000.00 fine. As well, your license will be suspended for a full year with the requirement to use an ignition interlock device when your license is reinstated.
Do you know someone who risks drinking and driving? They think that they are “safe” to drive after a few drinks? Perhaps a personal breathalyzer could be one of the most kindest gifts you could ever give. Perhaps it’s a gift you could give to yourself. Click here.
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Washington State DUI Penalties – Drunk Driving In The Evergreen State
In Washington, the drunk driving charge is officially referred to as “Driving Under The Influence” and shortened as “DUI.” One may be charged with a DUI for not only being over the legal limit of blood alcohol concentration, but also for being impaired while under the influence of controlled substances such as marijuana, cocaine, and other drugs.
The “Evergreen” State takes drinking and driving very seriously and has legislated severe penalties and hefty fines upon conviction. The legal limit of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in the State is 0.08% (or 80 mg per 100 ml blood), although there are lower limits for commercial drivers (0.04%) and those under the age of 21 (0.02).
If you are charged with an alcohol driving related offense in Washington, you are well advised to seek the council of a lawyer or attorney who has experience in defending drunk driving cases in this State. A lawyer can be of immense help in navigating the Court system as well, he or she could argue for a lesser sentence than what the State asking that the Court impose upon you.
How can you know what your BAC is after having a few drinks? Can you simply estimating it? Although many people believe that “one drink an hour” is safe, this is simply not true. There are far too many factors involved that determine how your body processes alcohol in the bloodstream. Some of these factors include gender, body temperature, percent body fat, how much you have eaten before you consumed alcohol, and others. Many drivers who have been convicted of a DUI report that they were surprised to discover their BAC was above the legal limit.
You can know your BAC if you accurately measure it. You can obtain your own personal breathalizer which will help you make a wise and informed decision about driving after you’ve had a few drinks. This device could save you thousands of dollars in legal fees, increased insurance rates, and of course, the humiliation of a DUI conviction along with saving your driver’s license privileges. Click here for more information.
Washington State DUI Penalties – First Offense:
If you are convicted of a drunk driving offense in Washington State, and it’s your first offense, you can expect jail time of a minimum of 24 hours. Up to 1 year is possible, or you could be subject to 15 days of electronic home monitoring. If your BAC was 0.15% or above, jail time increases to a minimum of 2 days to 1 year or electronic home monitoring for 30 days.
Fines are hefty in this State: BAC 0.15% or above, the minimum fine is $1,120.50 and up to $5,000.00. Below 0.15%, the minimum fine is $865.00 but $5,000.00 is still possible.
The basic license suspension is 90 days, but this could increase to a minimum of 1 year if your BAC was above 0.15%.
You may also be required to attend alcohol and drug education program.
When your license is reinstated, you will be required to install an ignition interlock device. 60 days is added to this period of you had a passenger under the age of 16.
Second Offense:
If you’ve already had one drunk driving conviction in Washington State, you know how expensive it can be. Why did you take the risk again? Why did you not get your own personal breathalizer?
The penalties for the second offense become even more severe. This time, you are looking at a minimum of 30 days in jail, with a maximum of 1 year possible. Sixty days of Electronic Home Monitoring is mandatory.
If your BAC was 0.15% or above, it gets worse: Minimum 45 days in jail and up to 1 year, with a mandatory 90 days Electronic Home Monitoring.
If your BAC was below 0.15%, you will be fined between $1,120.50 and $5,000.00. The basic license suspension for a second DUI in Washington State is 2 years, but this increases to 900 days if your BAC was above 0.15%. When your license is reinstated, proof of Washington SR22 Insurance is required.
Drug and alcohol education may be ordered.
Third Offense:
If you’ve made two times through DUI convictions, it’s amazing you’ve got to a third one. Penalties become even more severe for your drunk driving habits and your now facing jail time of a minimum of 90 days to 1 year and it’s mandatory that you will be subject to home electronic monitoring for 120 days. If your BAC was 0.15% or above, jail time increases to 120 days to 1 year and 150 mandatory days of electronic home monitoring.
Fines become even more hefty. $1,970.50 minimum to $5000.00. BAC 0.15% or higher? Fine becomes a minimum of $2,820.50 with $5,000.00 a possibility. Your license will be suspended for 3 years minimum unless your BAC was 0.15% or higher at which level the minimum suspension is 4 years.
Do you know someone who risks drinking and driving? They think that they are “safe” to drive after a few drinks? Perhaps a personal breathalyzer could be one of the most kindest gifts you could ever give. Perhaps it’s a gift you could give to yourself. Click here.
Virginia DUI Penalties – Drunk Driving In The “Old Dominion” State
In Virginia, the drunk driving charge is officially referred to as “Driving Under The Influence” and shortened as “DUI.” One may be charged with a DUI for not only being over the legal limit of blood alcohol concentration, but also for being impaired while under the influence of controlled substances such as marijuana, cocaine, and other drugs.
The “Old Dominion” State takes drinking and driving very seriously and has legislated severe penalties and hefty fines upon conviction. The legal limit of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in the State is 0.08% (or 80 mg per 100 ml blood), although there are lower limits for commercial drivers (0.04%) and those under the age of 21 (0.02).
If you are charged with an alcohol driving related offense in Virginia, you are well advised to seek the council of a lawyer or attorney who has experience in defending DUI cases in this State. A lawyer can be of immense help in navigating the Court system as well, he or she could argue for a lesser sentence than what the State asking that the Court impose upon you.
How can you know what your BAC is after having a few drinks? Can you simply estimating it? Although many people believe that “one drink an hour” is safe, this is simply not true. There are far too many factors involved that determine how your body processes alcohol in the bloodstream. Some of these factors include gender, body temperature, percent body fat, how much you have eaten before you consumed alcohol, and others. Many drivers who have been convicted of a DUI report that they were surprised to discover their BAC was above the legal limit.
You can know your BAC if you accurately measure it. You can obtain your own personal breathalizer which will help you make a wise and informed decision about driving after you’ve had a few drinks. This device could save you thousands of dollars in legal fees, increased insurance rates, and of course, the humiliation of a DUI conviction along with saving your driver’s license privileges. Click here for more information.
Virginia DUI Penalties – First Offense:
If you were traveling with a passenger under the age of 18 years when you were first charged with a DUI, you are definitely going to jail for a minimum of 5 days. If your blood alcohol concentration was between 0.15% and 0.20%, you’re going to jail for at least 5 days. If your BAC was above 0.20%, you are going to be behind bars for 10 days.
The minimum fine for a first DUI offense is $250.00 minimum. You can add $500.00 to $1,000.00 to the fine if traveling with a passenger under the age of 18.
Your license will be suspended for one year, and you will be ordered to participate in an Alcohol Safety Program. When your license is reinstated, if your BAC was 0.15% or above, you will be required to use an ignition interlock device in any vehicle you drive.
Second Offense:
If your second DUI in Virginia is within 5 years of your first one, you’ll be going to jail for a minimum of 20 days. It could be up to a year. If you were traveling with a passenger under 18 years old, the minimum jail time is 25 days, if within 5 years of your first DUI.
If your second DUI is within 5 to 10 years of your first offense, jail is 10 days minimum to 30 days. Depending on other circumstances (which is a good reason to get advice from a lawyer or attorney), your minimum time spent in jail could be as much as 35 days.
Your license will be suspended for 3 years, and there will be a minimum fine of $500.00 with an additional $500.00 to $1,000.00 if traveling with passengers under the age of 18.
Third Offense:
It’s amazing that in Virginia, that someone who has had two DUI convictions would chance a third. But sure enough, there are drivers who for some reason or other, take the risk. When they are caught, Virginia deals with these habitual offenders severely. If your third DUI is within 5 years of your previous one, you are facing a minimum jail sentence of 6 months. If within 5 to 10 years, the jail sentence minimum is 90 days. An additional 5 days is imposed if you had a passenger under the age of 18 years old.
Your fine is going to be a minimum of $1,000.00 and your license will be revoked permanently. There is a chance you could have your license reinstated after 5 years, but you must petition the Court. If it is reinstated, you will be subject to using an ignition interlock device in any vehicle you drive.
Do you know someone who risks drinking and driving? They think that they are “safe” to drive after a few drinks? Perhaps a personal breathalyzer could be one of the most kindest gifts you could ever give. Perhaps it’s a gift you could give to yourself. Click here.
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Vermont DUI Penalties – Drunk Driving In The Green Mountain State
In Vermont, the drunk driving charge is officially referred to as “Driving Under The Influence” and shortened as “DUI.” One may be charged with a DUI for not only being over the legal limit of blood alcohol concentration, but also for being impaired while under the influence of controlled substances such as marijuana, cocaine, and other drugs.
The State of Vermont takes drinking and driving very seriously and has legislated severe penalties and hefty fines upon conviction. The legal limit of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in the State is 0.08% (or 80 mg per 100 ml blood), although there are lower limits for commercial drivers (0.04%) and those under the age of 21 (0.02).
If you are charged with an alcohol driving related offense in Vermont, you are well advised to seek the council of a lawyer or attorney who has experience in defending DUI cases in this State. A lawyer can be of immense help in navigating the Court system as well, he or she could argue for a lesser sentence than what the State asking that the Court impose upon you.
How can you know what your BAC is after having a few drinks? Can you simply estimating it? Although many people believe that “one drink an hour” is safe, this is simply not true. There are far too many factors involved that determine how your body processes alcohol in the bloodstream. Some of these factors include gender, body temperature, percent body fat, how much you have eaten before you consumed alcohol, and others. Many drivers who have been convicted of a DUI report that they were surprised to discover their BAC was above the legal limit.
You can know your BAC if you accurately measure it. You can obtain your own personal breathalizer which will help you make a wise and informed decision about driving after you’ve had a few drinks. This device could save you thousands of dollars in legal fees, increased insurance rates, and of course, the humiliation of a DUI conviction along with saving your driver’s license privileges. Click here for more information.
Vermont DUI Penalties – First Offense:
Even though it is your first offense, if you are convicted of a DUI in Vermont you could go to jail for up to 2 years. Your license could be suspended for up to 2 years, and you will be subject to a maximum $750.00 fine. You will also be required to pay a minimum $160.00 DUI Surcharge.
In order to get your license back, you must complete an Alcohol and Driving Education Program, have a complete treatment assessment, and complete a therapy program.
Second Offense:
If you went through your first DUI conviction and made a mistake a second time and got caught driving impaired in Vermont, the penalties get even more severe. This time, you are facing a minimum of 60 consecutive hours in prison or minimum 200 hours minimum of Community Service. The law provides for a $1,500.00 fine and 18 moths of license suspension. You could also go to jail for a maximum of 2 years.
As well, you will be required to pay a minimum of $160.00 in DUI Surcharge fees.
In order for your license to be reinstated the second time, you need to participate in a complete alcohol rehab program.
Third Offense:
The Green Mountain State does not take kindly to drivers who commit a third DUI. Upon conviction of your third offense, you could go to jail for 5 years. There will be a minimum of four hundred hours of Community Service or jail time of a minimum of 1,000 consecutive hours.
The Courts may fine you as much as $2,500.00 with additional minimum $160.00 DWI surcharges.
You’ll face a lifetime license suspension. It is possible, after paying a $500.00 application fee, to have your license reinstatement considered as long as you can show total and complete abstinence from alcohol and controlled drugs for three years.
Your vehicle may also be subject to forfeiture to the State.
Do you know someone who risks drinking and driving? They think that they are “safe” to drive after a few drinks? Perhaps a personal breathalyzer could be one of the most kindest gifts you could ever give. Perhaps it’s a gift you could give to yourself. Click here.
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Utah DUI Penalties – Drunk Driving In The Beehive State
In Utah, the drunk driving charge is officially referred to as “Driving Under The Influence” and shortened as “DUI.” One may be charged with a DUI for not only being over the legal limit of blood alcohol concentration, but also for being impaired while under the influence of controlled substances such as marijuana, cocaine, and other drugs.
The State of Utah takes drinking and driving very seriously and has legislated severe penalties and hefty fines upon conviction of a DUI. The legal limit of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in the State is 0.08% (or 80 mg per 100 ml blood), although there are lower limits for commercial drivers (0.04%) and those under the age of 21 (zero tolerance). If you get caught and are charged with a DUI in the Beehive State, you’re going to get stung.
If you are charged with an alcohol driving related offense in Utah, you are well advised to seek the council of a lawyer or attorney who has experience in defending DUI cases in this State. A lawyer can be of immense help in navigating the Court system as well, he or she could argue for a lesser sentence than what the State asking that the Court impose upon you.
How can you know what your BAC is after having a few drinks? Can you simply estimating it? Although many people believe that “one drink an hour” is safe, this is simply not true. There are far too many factors involved that determine how your body processes alcohol in the bloodstream. Some of these factors include gender, body temperature, percent body fat, how much you have eaten before you consumed alcohol, and others. Many drivers who have been convicted of a DUI report that they were surprised to discover their BAC was above the legal limit.
You can know your BAC if you accurately measure it. You can obtain your own personal breathalizer which will help you make a wise and informed decision about driving after you’ve had a few drinks. This device could save you thousands of dollars in legal fees, increased insurance rates, and of course, the humiliation of a DUI conviction along with saving your driver’s license privileges. Click here for more information.
DUI Penalties For A First Offense In Utah:
If you are convicted of a DUI in Utah, you are looking at some of your freedoms being taken away. For example, you could go to jail for 48 hours minimum, or be required to do 48 hours minimum in a Work Service Program. Another option is that the Court may order you to be confined to your home.
There is a minimum fine of $720.00 and a minimum license suspension of 120 days.
You could be electronically monitored while being confined to home. Other possibilities and options available to the Courts include participation in alcohol/drug assessment, treatment and education.
Second Offense:
If you’ve already been convicted of one DUI in Utah, it’s amazing that you’ve made the same mistake again! Why did you not get your own personal breathalizer? It could have saved you the costs of fines, legal fees, loss of freedom and the license suspension you’re about to receive.
On your second conviction, you are going to jail for 240 hours or be required to put in 240 hours in a Work Service Program. Again, you could be ordered confined to your home which may include electronic monitoring.
The minimum fine for a second DUI is $800.00 and your license will be suspended for 2 years.
Third Offense:
A third DUI conviction in Utah carries even more severe penalties with minimum jail time of 1,500 hours along with a minimum $1,500.00 fine. Your license will be suspended for 2 years, and when reinstated, you will be required to install and use an ignition interlock device in any vehicle you drive for a further 3 years. In addition, you could be subject to supervised probation.
Do you know someone who risks drinking and driving? They think that they are “safe” to drive after a few drinks? Perhaps a personal breathalyzer could be one of the most kindest gifts you could ever give. Perhaps it’s a gift you could give to yourself. Click here.
Posted in State Impaired Driving Laws | Tags: dui penalties, jail time for dui, utah dui penalties | 1 Comment »
Texas DWI Penalties – Drunk Driving In The Lone Star State
In Texas, the drunk driving charge is officially referred to as “Driving While Intoxicated” and shortened as “DWI.” One may be charged with a DWI for not only being over the legal limit of blood alcohol concentration, but also for being impaired while under the influence of controlled substances such as marijuana, cocaine, and other drugs.
The State of Texas takes drinking and driving very seriously and has legislated severe penalties and hefty fines upon conviction of a DUI. The legal limit of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in the State is 0.08% (or 80 mg per 100 ml blood), although there are lower limits for commercial drivers (0.04%) and those under the age of 21 (0.02%). The penalties are pro-rated and are based upon what your BAC reading was when you were arrested.
If you are charged with an alcohol driving related offense in Texas, you are well advised to seek the council of a lawyer or attorney who has experience in defending DUI cases in this State. A lawyer can be of immense help in navigating the Court system as well, he or she could argue for a lesser sentence than what the State asking that the Court impose upon you.
How can you know what your BAC is after having a few drinks? Can you simply estimating it? Although many people believe that “one drink an hour” is safe, this is simply not true. There are far too many factors involved that determine how your body processes alcohol in the bloodstream. Some of these factors include gender, body temperature, percent body fat, how much you have eaten before you consumed alcohol, and others. Many drivers who have been convicted of a DUI report that they were surprised to discover their BAC was above the legal limit.
You can know your BAC if you accurately measure it. You can obtain your own personal breathalizer which will help you make a wise and informed decision about driving after you’ve had a few drinks. This device could save you thousands of dollars in legal fees, increased insurance rates, and of course, the humiliation of a DUI conviction along with saving your driver’s license privileges. Click here for more information.
Texas DWI Penalties – First Offense:
If you’ve been charged with a DWI in Texas, you are facing a minimum of 72 hours in jail upon conviction and up to a maximum of 180 days. However, if you were transporting a child under the age of 15, your minimum jail time increases to 180 days with 2 years behind bars a possibility.
Likewise, your fine for a DWI in Texas can be up to $2,000.00 but if transporting a minor, as much as $10,000.00!
In addition to the fines, there will be a DWI surcharge of $1,000.00 per year for three years. This surcharge increases to $2,000.00 a year for three years if your blood alcohol concentration was 0.16 or higher.
Your driver’s license will be suspended for between 90 and 365 days.
If you add up the costs of a DUI which include all the fines, surcharges, legal fees, vehicle insurance increases and lost time, you’re looking at thousands upon thousands of dollars for your first DUI.
Don’t you think you should get some inexpensive insurance against a DUI? If you’ve had a few drinks, you can make an informed and wise decision about drinking and driving by measuring accurately your BAC.
Second Offense:
A second DWI offense in Texas comes with increased penalties, fines and surcharges. Upon a second conviction, you are facing 30 days to 1 year behind bars. Similar to the first conviction, if you were transporting a minor under 15 years old, this increases to between 180 days and and 2 years of jail time.
Your fine could be as much as $4,000.00 ($10,000.00 if transporting a minor).
In addition to the above fines, you will be required to pay a DWI surcharge of $1,500.00 a year for 3 years ($2,000.00 a year if your BAC was 0.16% or higher).
Your driver’s license will be suspended for between 180 days and 2 years, and after reinstatement, you will be required to install an ignition interlock device in any vehicle you drive.
Third Offense:
A third DWI in Texas carries a sentence of jail from 2 to 10 years, a fine of up to $10,000.00 and a license suspension of 180 days to 2 years.
Do you know someone who risks drinking and driving? They think that they are “safe” to drive after a few drinks? Perhaps a personal breathalyzer could be one of the most kindest gifts you could ever give. Perhaps it’s a gift you could give to yourself. Click here.
Posted in State Impaired Driving Laws | Tags: dui penalties, jail time for dui, texas dui penalties | 1 Comment »
Tennessee DUI Penalties – Drunk Driving In The Volunteer State
The State of Tennessee takes drinking and driving very seriously and has legislated severe penalties and hefty fines upon conviction of a DUI. The legal limit of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in the State is 0.08% (or 80 mg per 100 ml blood), although there are lower limits for commercial drivers (0.04%) and those under the age of 21 (0.02%). The penalties are pro-rated and are based upon what your BAC reading was when you were arrested.
If you are charged with an alcohol driving related offense in Tennessee, you are well advised to seek the council of a lawyer or attorney who has experience in defending DUI cases in this State. A lawyer can be of immense help in navigating the Court system as well, he or she could argue for a lesser sentence than what the State asking that the Court impose upon you.
How can you know what your BAC is after having a few drinks? Can you simply estimating it? Although many people believe that “one drink an hour” is safe, this is simply not true. There are far too many factors involved that determine how your body processes alcohol in the bloodstream. Some of these factors include gender, body temperature, percent body fat, how much you have eaten before you consumed alcohol, and others. Many drivers who have been convicted of a DUI report that they were surprised to discover their BAC was above the legal limit.
You can know your BAC if you accurately measure it. You can obtain your own personal breathalizer which will help you make a wise and informed decision about driving after you’ve had a few drinks. This device could save you thousands of dollars in legal fees, increased insurance rates, and of course, the humiliation of a DUI conviction along with saving your driver’s license privileges. Click here for more information.
First Offence Tennessee DUI Penalties:
If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Tennessee, and it’s your first one, the process can be scary and worrisome. It’s best to not even take a risk at all when driving and that you might be impaired. Like most drivers who are charged with drunk driving, they never thought they would get caught and thought they were safe to drive. A personal breathalyzer may have helped in those situations in making a more wise and informed decision.
The penalties for a DUI in Tennessee can be severe. Your looking at jail time of a minimum of 48 hours and up to 11 months. The fine for a first offense ranges from a minimum of $350.00 to a maximum of $1,500.00. Your license will be suspended for 1 year.
After reinstatement of your license, you may be required to have an ignition interlock device installed if:
Your BAC was over 0.15%
You had a passenger in the vehicle under the age of 18 at the time of the offense.
You refused the test to measure your BAC.
Other penalty options in Tennessee also include being required to spend three 8 hour shifts picking up litter and attendance at a DUI school program.
If you were transporting a minor, you could also be subject to more severe penalties.
Second Offense:
If you’ve been convicted of a DUI in Tennessee, and are now facing a second conviction, the penalties can be severely increased since the first one. This time, you are looking at jail of a minimum of 45 days and up to 1 year. The minimum fine increases to $600.00 and up to $3,500.00 is possible. As well, your license will be suspended for 2 years.
After reinstatement of your license, you may be required to have an ignition interlock device installed if:
Your BAC was over 0.15%
You had a passenger in the vehicle under the age of 18 at the time of the offense.
You refused the test to measure your BAC.
Third Offense:
It’s hard to believe that there are drivers out there that would go through 2 DUI convictions with the high costs they paid out, the humiliation that was involved and the loss of freedom, and then do it again! Perhaps if they had their own personal breathalizer, they would have made a more wise and informed decision.
The third offense in Tennessee upon conviction means a minimum of 120 days in jail and up to 1 year. Your license will be suspended for 3 to 5 years, and you will be fined between $1,100.00 to $10,000.00.
There is also the possibility you will be ordered by the Court to forfeit your vehicle.
Fourth Offense:
If you’re convicted of a fourth offense in the State of Tennessee, you are now considered a Class “E” Felon with a minimum of 150 days in jail and up to the maximum for Class “E” felony convictions. Your minimum fine will be $3,000.00 with up to $15,000.00 possible. As well, your license will be suspended for a minimum of 5 years, and it is possible that the Court will have it suspended indefinitely.
As you can see, your best option is to separate your behaviors of drinking from your driving. If you do have a few social drinks on occasion where driving might be a temptation, you ought to know your BAC accurately before you make the decision. Here’s how.
Posted in State Impaired Driving Laws | Tags: dui penalties, jail time for dui, tennessee dui penalties | No Comments »
South Dakota DUI Penalties – Drunk Driving In The Mount Rushmore State
The State of South Dakota takes drinking and driving very seriously and has legislated severe penalties and hefty fines upon conviction of a DUI. The legal limit of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in the State is 0.08% (or 80 mg per 100 ml blood), although there are lower limits for commercial drivers (0.04%) and those under the age of 21 (0.02%). The penalties are pro-rated and are based upon what your BAC reading was when you were arrested.
If you are charged with an alcohol driving related offense in South Dakota, you are well advised to seek the council of a lawyer or attorney who has experience in defending DUI cases in this State. A lawyer can be of immense help in navigating the Court system as well, he or she could argue for a lesser sentence than what the State asking that the Court impose upon you.
How can you know what your BAC is after having a few drinks? Can you simply estimating it? Although many people believe that “one drink an hour” is safe, this is simply not true. There are far too many factors involved that determine how your body processes alcohol in the bloodstream. Some of these factors include gender, body temperature, percent body fat, how much you have eaten before you consumed alcohol, and others. Many drivers who have been convicted of a DUI report that they were surprised to discover their BAC was above the legal limit.
You can know your BAC if you accurately measure it. You can obtain your own personal breathalizer which will help you make a wise and informed decision about driving after you’ve had a few drinks. This device could save you thousands of dollars in legal fees, increased insurance rates, and of course, the humiliation of a DUI conviction along with saving your driver’s license privileges. Click here for more information.
South Dakota DUI Penalties – First Offense:
If you’re facing a DUI conviction, you should know what the penalties are. There is a possibility of up to one full year in jail. Your fine will be $1,000.00, and your license will be suspended for a minimum of 30 days but 1 year is possible. You may be able to apply for a restricted license.
When your license is reinstated, you will require proof of SR22 Insurance.
Second Offense:
Hard to believe that there are people who have gone through their first DUI conviction, and somehow slip up again. Perhaps they should have had their own personal breathalyzer to help them make a much more wise and informed decision. Do you know someone who could use one? Click Here.
If you have been charged a second time, you’re facing even more severe penalties which include up to 1 year in jail, a $1,000.00 fine and a license suspension of 180 days to 1 year. A restricted license still is possible however.
You will also be required to attend a complete chemical dependency program. When your license is reinstated, you’ll need to show proof of financial responsibility with SR22 Insurance.
Third Offense:
A third offense involving drunk driving in South Dakota is considered a Class 6 Felony and it is possible you could serve up to 2 years in jail. Your fine will be $2,000.00 and your license will be suspended for 1 year while you take a chemical dependency program.
A restricted license is available.
Posted in State Impaired Driving Laws | Tags: dui penalties, jail time for dui, south dakota dui penalties | No Comments »
South Carolina DUI Penalties – Drunk Driving In The Palmetto State
The State of South Carolina takes drinking and driving very seriously and has legislated severe penalties and hefty fines upon conviction of a DUI. The legal limit of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in the State is 0.08% (or 80 mg per 100 ml blood), although there are lower limits for commercial drivers (0.04%) and those under the age of 21 (0.02%). The penalties are pro-rated and are based upon what your BAC reading was when you were arrested.
If you are charged with an alcohol driving related offense in SC, you are well advised to seek the council of a lawyer or attorney who has experience in defending DUI cases in this State. A lawyer can be of immense help in navigating the Court system as well, he or she could argue for a lesser sentence than what the State asking that the Court impose upon you.
How can you know what your BAC is after having a few drinks? Can you simply estimating it? Although many people believe that “one drink an hour” is safe, this is simply not true. There are far too many factors involved that determine how your body processes alcohol in the bloodstream. Some of these factors include gender, body temperature, percent body fat, how much you have eaten before you consumed alcohol, and others. Many drivers who have been convicted of a DUI report that they were surprised to discover their BAC was above the legal limit.
You can know your BAC if you accurately measure it. You can obtain your own personal breathalizer which will help you make a wise and informed decision about driving after you’ve had a few drinks. This device could save you thousands of dollars in legal fees, increased insurance rates, and of course, the humiliation of a DUI conviction along with saving your driver’s license privileges. Click here for more information.
South Carolina DUI First Offense Penalties:
Like some other States, South Carolina has a scale by which fines and sentences are decided, based upon your Blood Alcohol Concentration at the time of the offense.
If your BAC was below 0.10%:
You’re facing a fine of $400.00, jail time of between 48 hours and up to a maximum of 30 days (or 48 hours Community Service), and your license will be suspended for 6 months.
If your BAC was 0.10 and up to 0.159%:
You’re facing a fine of $500.00, minimum 72 hours in jail (or 72 hours public employment service) and up to 30 days behind bars, with a license suspension of 6 months.
If your BAC was above 0.16%:
Your fine will be $1,000.00, jail time minimum of 30 days (or 30 days public employment service) and up to a maximum of 90 days, and a license suspension of 6 months.
Second Offense:
You didn’t get yourself a personal breathalyzer after the first one? South Carolina ramps up the penalties on the second offense.
Here’s what your facing now:
If your BAC was below 0.10%:
Jail time minimum of 5 days and up to one year. Your second offense is really going to hit you in the pocket book with a minimum fine of $2,100.00 and up to $5,000.00 possible. Your license will be suspended for one year.
If your BAC was 0.10 and up to 0.159%:
You’re facing a fine of $2,500.00 to %5,500.00, minimum 30 days and up to 2 years behind bars, with a license suspension of 1 year.
If your BAC was above 0.16%:
You’re facing a fine of $3,500.00 to $6,500.00, minimum 90 days and up to 3 years behind bars, with a license suspension of 1 year.
Third Offense:
Blood Alcohol Content Under .10
- License Suspension – 2 Years
- Fine $3,800-$6,300
- Jail – Minimum 60 Days- Maximum 3 Years
Blood Alcohol Content Between 0.10 and 0.159:
- License Suspension – 2 Years
- Fine $5,000-$7,500
- Jail – Minimum 90 Days- Maximum 4 Years
Blood Alcohol Content Above 0.16
- License Suspension – 2 Years
- Fine $7,500-$10,000
- Jail – Minimum 6 Months – Maximum 5 Years
Fourth Offense:
Permanent license suspension and up to 7 years in jail depending on what your BAC reading was.
Posted in State Impaired Driving Laws | Tags: dui penalties, south carolina dui penalties | 2 Comments »