Driving under the influence of alcohol puts not only the person driving but other drivers and pedestrians in harm's way. Due to the different kinds of incidents, accidents, and legal infractions a person can experience while driving under the influence, state laws have taken this into account and have made different types of DUI offenses so as to properly charge suspected drunk drivers. Misdemeanor DUI is the most common type of DUI offense and typically does not involve any other type of infraction, unlike felony DUI which oftentimes involves other more serious charges. DUIs with prior convictions may also result in higher fines and harsher penalties than first-time offenders.
If you or someone you know has been arrested for DUI, please let us help you. Contact a DUI Lawyer in your area today!
DUI, DWI, and OUI
There are three main types of DUI offenses which are: driving under the influence (DUI), driving while intoxicated (DWI), and operating under the influence (OUI). Penalties and fines are determined by the severity, degree of the offense, and prior offenses. For example, if a person is arrested for driving drunk for the first time, he/she will most likely not suffer the same sentence, fines, and penalties as an individual with two prior DUI offenses or an habitual traffic offender.
DUI offenses may also be misdemeanor charges or felony charges. When a person is pulled over for driving while under the influence for the first time, he or she may be only charged with a misdemeanor if the individual does not have any prior convictions and has no further charges. While felony DUI charges, also known or referred to as aggravated DUI in some states, stem from the aggravated circumstances involved in the DUI arrest or situation thereof. A person with multiple DUI charges may also be charged with aggravated DUI if he or she is a habitual offender and blatantly disregards traffic laws or the safety of other while operating a vehicle.
Common DUI offenses include:
- First Offense DUI
- Second Offense DUI
- Extreme DUI
- Aggravated DUI
Get Legal Help
Driving while under the influence of alcohol is a serious matter. If you or anyone you know has been arrested and charged with a DUI, get legal help. An attorney with experience in handling DUI cases in your county can assist you by gathering evidence and presenting a strong defense in a court of law. Please contact a DUI Lawyer in your area today.