DUI Rules & Regulations

Important Changes to Pennsylvania DUI Laws

Significant Updates on DUI Penalties

Attention to all drivers in Pennsylvania! Recent changes in the state’s DUI penalties are worth noting, especially for those who drive under the influence of alcohol or certain prescription drugs. Even medications prescribed by a doctor can lead to DUI charges if they impair your ability to drive safely.

New Regulations Effective August 2017

Starting in August 2017, Pennsylvania implemented changes focusing on first-time DUI offenders. Now, these individuals must install an ignition interlock device in their vehicles. This device checks Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) before allowing the engine to start. The cost of the device is the offender’s responsibility. It requires a breath sample and will only enable ignition if BAC is below the legal limit of .08%. Multiple attempts are allowed for accuracy—failure on the first attempt results in a five-minute delay, and a second failure triggers a thirty-minute lockout.

Key Points:

• Driving to Work: First-time offenders with an ignition interlock license can drive to work.
• Device Installation: The ignition interlock must stay installed for one year.
• Installer: Approved PennDOT mechanics handle installation, costing around $100 annually.

Previously, a first-time DUI conviction meant a year-long driver’s license suspension. Under the new regulations, refusing a blood-alcohol test can result in installing the interlock device and restoration of driving privileges after a six-month suspension, regardless of the initial suspension length. The interlock device also performs random “rolling re-tests” while driving, maintaining the system’s integrity.

Before these changes, ignition interlock devices were only for repeat offenders, but now first-time offenders must also comply. This shift in legislation was motivated by the impact on job security due to suspended licenses. Many faced financial hardships from lost jobs or reduced hours when unable to commute, leading to illegal driving under suspension and further compounding their issues.

Beyond work-related challenges, license suspensions affected personal life, preventing parents from attending family events or participating in children’s activities.

Updated DUI Laws as of December 23, 2018

Recent updates to Pennsylvania’s DUI laws, effective December 23, 2018, have introduced more stringent penalties:

• Third High-DUI Offense: Could result in a felony charge. A High-DUI is a BAC of 0.16% or higher.
• Fourth and Subsequent DUIs: Face similar felony charges.
• Fatalities Caused Under Influence: May lead to a first-degree felony with an additional five-year prison term.
• Driving without a License & Aggravated Assault: Aggravated assault entails extended penalties, including two extra years of imprisonment.
• Penalties for Driving Under Suspension Due to DUI:
• First Offense: Minimum $500 fine and up to 60 days in jail.
• Second Offense: At least 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

These legal changes emphasize the importance of understanding DUI laws in Pennsylvania to avoid severe consequences. Our Greensburg DUI lawyers are here to help you. For a free consultation contact us at (844) 748-8384.