Repeated DUI Consequences

Understanding the Consequences of Multiple DUI Offenses in Pennsylvania

Getting arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Pennsylvania multiple times can lead to increasingly severe consequences. Pennsylvania judges consider a ten-year look-back period when determining sentences for DUI convictions, which means past offenses within this timeframe can impact your penalties. The number of DUI convictions influences fines, jail time, and driver’s license suspension duration. If you have multiple DUI offenses, it’s crucial to seek legal guidance from a Kittanning DUI attorney.

Factors Influencing DUI Penalties

Aside from the number of convictions, the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level also affects the consequences of a repeat DUI, even if it’s your second offense:

• Tier 3 (Highest DUI) is assigned if your BAC is 0.16 percent or above, or if drugs (prescription or illegal) are found in your system. This is a first-degree misdemeanor, carrying up to five years in prison, an 18-month license suspension, mandatory driving safety classes, community service, and a drug and alcohol evaluation. Refusal to undergo testing for blood, breath, or urine results in a Tier 3 charge.
• Tier 2 (High DUI) applies when your BAC is between 0.10 percent and 0.159 percent. This offense is an ungraded misdemeanor with a possible jail sentence of 30 days to six months, a 12-month license suspension, and mandatory drug and alcohol evaluation, along with safe driving classes.
• Tier 1 (General Impairment) pertains to BAC levels of 0.08 percent to 0.099 percent. If convicted, you face an ungraded misdemeanor, with a jail term ranging from five days to six months, and a one-year license suspension.

Penalties for a Third DUI Charge

Facing a third DUI charge within ten years carries severe penalties:

• Tier 1 or 2 DUI offenses can result in a jail sentence of five days to five years.
• Tier 3 DUI may lead to a state prison sentence of one to five years instead of a county jail term.

These punitive measures are particularly harsh and need to be taken seriously.

Recent Changes in Pennsylvania DUI Laws

In 2018, Pennsylvania introduced stricter penalties for repeat DUI offenders. For a third DUI, a felony charge may be imposed if the BAC is at least 0.16 percent. Similarly, a fourth or subsequent DUI arrest can also result in felony charges, regardless of BAC levels.

When a DUI results in a fatality, the driver faces a first-degree felony charge. If the driver was unlicensed or had a suspended license, the potential prison sentence increases by an additional five years. In cases of aggravated assault while driving without a valid license, offenders could face an extra two years of incarceration.

Seeking Legal Representation

Have you or someone you know recently been arrested for a second or third DUI within the last ten years? If so, it’s crucial to get advice from a seasoned Kittanning criminal attorney who has handled numerous DUI cases similar to yours.  

At Logue Law Group, we have successfully represented many individuals facing DUI charges. Our Logue Law Group serves the Kittanning area, as well as West Virginia and Ohio. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation at 844.PITT.DUI, or 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 harder it becomes for a Kittanning DUI attorney to obtain the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t delay any further. Call us right away!