Safety campaigns, initiatives, and enforcement efforts aiming to prevent motorists from driving while intoxicated are prevalent at the federal, state, and local levels. The problem has persisted in the U.S. despite more stringent penalties and increased awareness. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) explains that there are now more alternatives available to driving drunk. Options include using a designated driver, public transportation, taxis, and 36% of Americans have used a ride-hailing service.
Lehigh County Data
In 2017, there were approximately 5,141 vehicle crashes in Lehigh County. In roughly 396 of these accidents, one or more drivers were determined to be impaired. The vast majority of traffic accidents are the result of human error. There were 103 accidents attributed to speeding and 517 resulting from driver distraction.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
An offense of driving under the influence of alcohol involves a motorist who drives, operates, or otherwise maintains control of a vehicle when they have consumed an amount of alcohol that makes it unsafe. All drivers are bound by implied consent requiring them to submit to testing when a member of law enforcement believes they may be intoxicated. Anyone who refuses to submit to testing is subject to an automatic suspension of driving privileges.
A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of .08% for impairment applies in all states. Those operating a vehicle under the influence of certain drugs also may face DUI charges. All Schedule I controlled substances, Schedule II substances not prescribed by a physician, and other noxious agents are prohibited from existing in a motorist's blood when operating.
Tiers of Alcohol Impairment (BAC)
- General Impairment: 0.08 - 0.099%
- High Level: 0.10 - 0.159%
- Highest Level: 0.16% +
Ignition Interlock Devices
Certain DUI offenders must have an ignition interlock device installed on their vehicle that requires them to provide a breath sample to start the car. First-time offenders with a high-level BAC or those who refuse to consent to chemical testing are subject to this requirement. Offenders are responsible for the leasing costs of the equipment, which currently ranges from $900 to $1,300 annually.
Felony DUI Charges
The law considers all convictions in the past 10 years to be prior offenses. Recent legislation was implemented that results in certain habitual DUI offenders being charged with a third-degree felony offense.
|
Incarceration |
Fines |
Suspended License |
Ignition Interlock |
|
|
Third Offense (Highest BAC) |
1 to 7 years |
$2,500-$10,000 |
18 months |
12 months |
|
Fourth-Offense Felony (General) |
10 days to 7 years |
$500-$15,000 |
18 months |
12 months |
|
Fourth-Offense Felony (High) |
1 to 7 years |
$1,500-$15,000 |
18 months |
12 months |
|
Fourth-Offense Felony (Highest) |
1 to 7 years |
$2,500-$15,000 |
18 months |
12 months |
Importance of Retaining Seasoned Experienced Legal Counsel
The stakes are too high if convicted of a felony-level DUI to consider anyone that is not a seasoned criminal defense attorney to represent you. Choose a lawyer who regularly represents clients in this realm of specialty legal practice.
Lehigh County DUI Defense
Our Criminal Law Team has spent years providing aggressive legal representation for those facing DUI allegations in the Pennsylvania courts. We thoroughly review and analyze the specific facts and circumstances involved in the case to construct a customized defense strategy. You are encouraged to contact our office for a complimentary case evaluation at (888) 535-3686.
