Repeated DUI Consequences

When it comes to repeatedly getting arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Pennsylvania, the consequences become increasingly severe with each conviction. Pennsylvania judges take into account the previous ten-year period when determining sentences for DUI convictions. The number of convictions directly affects the fines, jail sentence length, and driver’s license suspension duration. If you have multiple DUI convictions, it is advisable to seek legal representation from a Pittsburgh Criminal Attorney.

In addition to the number of convictions, the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level also plays a role in determining the consequences for a repeat DUI conviction, even for a second offense. A Tier 3 (Highest DUI) is assigned when the BAC is 0.16 percent or above, or if drugs (prescription or illegal) are detected in the system. A Tier 3 DUI is considered a first-degree misdemeanor, which carries a potential prison sentence of up to five years, an 18-month license suspension, mandatory driving safety classes, community service, and a drug and alcohol evaluation. Refusing to comply with blood, breath, or urine tests will also result in a Tier 3 charge.

For a second DUI that falls under Tier 2 (High DUI), with a BAC ranging from 0.10 percent to 0.159 percent, the DUI is classified as an ungraded misdemeanor. The jail sentence can range from 30 days to six months, with a 12-month license suspension and mandatory drug and alcohol evaluation, as well as safe driving classes.

If you are facing a second DUI that falls under Tier 1 (General Impairment) DUI, meaning your BAC was between 0.08 percent and 0.099 percent, it is considered an ungraded misdemeanor. The jail sentence for this offense ranges from five days to six months, and your license will be suspended for a year.

A third DUI charge within a ten-year period carries significant penalties. A Tier 1 or 2 DUI warrants a jail sentence ranging from five days to five years, while a Tier 3 DUI can result in one to five years in a state prison, rather than a county jail. These punishments are particularly severe and should not be taken lightly.

Changes were made to Pennsylvania’s DUI laws in 2018, resulting in stricter penalties for repeat offenders. For individuals facing a third DUI, a felony charge can now be imposed if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is at or above 0.16 percent. Similarly, if the BAC is lower but it is their fourth or subsequent arrest, the same felony charge will apply.

When a person drives under the influence and causes the death of another, they now face a first-degree felony. In cases where the person was driving without a license or with a suspended license, the potential prison sentence has increased by five years compared to previous allowances. Furthermore, if someone is charged with aggravated assault for causing injury while intoxicated and driving with a suspended or no license, they could face an additional two years behind bars.

Have you or someone you know recently been stopped and arrested for a DUI for the second or third time within the last ten years? If so, you need the expertise of a seasoned Pittsburgh criminal attorney who has handled numerous DUI cases, many similar to yours.

At Logue Criminal Defense, we have successfully represented countless individuals who have been arrested for Driving Under the Influence. Our firm proudly serves the Pittsburgh area, as well as West Virginia and Eastern Ohio. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation at 844.PITT.DUI. You may also reach us online. Act now! A third DUI conviction carries severe and long-lasting consequences that can greatly impact your life.

Remember, the longer you wait to secure legal representation, the more challenging it becomes for a Pittsburgh DUI attorney to obtain the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t delay any further. Call us right away!