Driving under the influence can put you in different types of danger. For one, there are physical consequences where you can suffer paralysis, brain damage, and even death. There are also mental consequences like being filled with guilt, especially when you accidentally kill someone. However, another consequence can have a huge impact on your life, and it comes in the form of criminal offenses.
There are different reasons why a person can be driving under the influence. It can either be because of the influence of alcohol or drugs. But whichever the reason is, it can still put you to different sorts of consequences.
Driving Under The Influence – Understanding The Difference
Driving under the influence (DUI) or impaired driving can be caused by two different things; it’s either because of alcohol or drugs. But no matter which of the two is the cause of a crime, they are still crimes that are punishable by laws. When a law enforcement officer thinks that you are too impaired to drive, they can accuse you of a DUI.
Consequences Of Driving Under The Influence
Whether you are accused of a DUI or a DWI, the consequences of a conviction will highly depend on the severity of your case. You will be investigated if you have committed a first-, second-, or third-degree crime that will lead you to a conviction. A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) test will also be made at the time of your arrest to see the level of your influence. There are three levels of BAC:
- General impairment – 0.8 – 0.99%
- High BAC – 0.10 – 0.159%
- Highest BAC – 0.16% and above
If your blood alcohol content is higher than 0.8% you are legally considered impaired in the United States. Even if your alcohol content is only at 0.8% or below, if an officer thinks you are unable to drive, you will still be charged. This can still apply to anyone that is intoxicated because you are considered as not driving safely and putting others at risk. There are the most common punishments for a conviction under DUI or DWI:
- Imprisonment
- Suspension or revocation of driver’s license
- Confiscation of vehicle license plate
- Vehicle impoundment
- Ignition interlock device restrictions
- Alcohol abuse violations
- Monitored sobriety
- Mandatory alcohol abuse treatment program
- Rehabilitation
The effects of alcohol and drugs can affect a driver’s decision-making skills, as well as their coordination. This is mostly the main reason why driving under the influence can cause many accidents.
The Best DUI Attorneys
A DUI charge is considered a serious crime. It can affect your life in so many ways. That’s why if you’re facing a DUI charge, you will need the help of the best DUI lawyers in Philadelphia to help you defend your case. At Brennan Law Offices, we have a team of lawyers that will help ensure you are given the best DUI results. If you need a Philadelphia DUI attorney or a drug lawyer in Philadelphia, get in touch with us today at Brennan Law Offices.