In most states, a first time DUI offense is classified as a misdemeanor, but this does that mean that you take a DUI charge lightly. This offense should never be underestimated. Most people are under the impression that a first DUI is like getting a traffic ticket, but they are absolutely wrong.
If you are charged with a DUI, you will need to go to court, and if found guilty, you may be fined a monetary penalty, have your license suspended and/or be placed on probation. And no matter what, a first time DUI will result in your license being suspended for a certain period of time. Depending on your work history, you may be able to get a hardship license so that you can only travel to work or school. But other then that, your movements will be restricted. Also, there are many fees that come with a first time DUI like a fine, court costs, urinalysis fee, probation costs, etc.
The point is that just because your first DUI offense is classified as a misdemeanor, and does not result in a long suspension or a very high monetary fine, that does not mean that you continue to be careless and demonstrate the same behavior again because if you get a second DUI charge, the consequences can be much worse.
What happens if you have a second time DUI?
If you thought that the first DUI was a big deal, you would soon find out that a second DUI is far more serious and carries with it a lot of legal repercussions. The legal system in the US does not look kindly at drivers with a second DUI, especially if this was within the first ten years since the first DUI. Not only will you face a charge of a second DUI but the judge will also add on an extra charge – a violation of probation Moreover, the penalties you will suffer will be much harsher and more serious than the first DUI.
What penalties do you face with a second DUI?
The penalties for a second DUI are similar depends on the laws of your state as well as your BAC levels. Additional factors that could have an impact on the amount also include whether you refused the breathalyzer, or if anyone was killed or maimed. But overall, this is what you should expect:
- The monetary penalty may vary from a few hundred dollars to $10,000 or more- usually expect the higher number.
- The license suspension may vary from 24-36 months
- The probation period may be for 6-24 months
- Incarceration time maybe 12 months, but depending on your BAC, it can be higher.
Other penalties may include the following:
- Participation in drug and alcohol rehabilitation program as a condition of the probation. You will have to pay the cost of attending these classes.
- Many states also have introduced driver intervention programs that have been designed to help the repeat DUI offender learn about the harms of driving while drunk and undertaking steps to prevent it from happening again. Again, these intervention programs cost money which you will have to bear.
- The judge may order an ignition interlock lock device for your vehicle for 1-12 months, the costs of which you will have to bear.
Your vehicle may be impounded when arrested for a second DUI. The car will be taken to an impound facility and not be released for 1-3 months, and you will be responsible for not only the towing fee but the daily cost of keeping the car at the impound storage facility.
Contact a DUI Lawyer at The Bateman Law Firm
Based on the penalties outlined above, it is evident that one should simply avoid driving while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. And if you have been convicted of a first DUI, think hard before you drive drunk again because a second DUI can ruin you financially and create havoc in your personal & professional life.
If you were caught driving drunk, you should talk to a DUI lawyer at The Bateman Law Firm. Our DUI attorneys will discuss the details of your case, and based on the information you provide, they can outline a plan of action. Call now and let our DUI attorneys help you, but always keep in mind that it’s just not worth the risk and the hassle. If you are drunk or if you think you cannot drive properly, just don’t get behind the wheel.