Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in the Keystone State, and a conviction can lead to significant legal repercussions accordingly. Understanding the specifics of state laws regarding DUI and the penalties for first-time DUI offenses is crucial for state residents and visitors alike.
The state has set legal limits for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels while operating a motor vehicle; it’s illegal for motorists to operate their vehicle with a BAC ranging between 0.08% to 0.99%. The penalties are aggravated if a defendant is found behind the wheel with a BAC of 0.10% to 0.159% or 0.16% and higher. Furthermore, the state has an implied consent law; therefore, offenders who refuse a chemical test post-arrest may face more penalties.
Penalties for first-time DUI offenses
Upon being charged with a first-time DUI offense for being behind the wheel with a BAC of 0.08% to 0.99%, individuals may face both administrative and criminal penalties. This is an ungraded misdemeanor, and defendants can expect:
- 6 months probation
- $300 fine
- Mandatory DUI classes
- Drug and alcohol treatment as ordered by the court
There is a higher set of penalties for drivers who get arrested for a DUI, with a BAC of 0.10% to 0.159%. This is also an ungraded misdemeanor and defendants can expect the following penalties:
- 12-month driver’s license suspension
- Fines ranging between $500 – $5,000
- Mandatory DUI classes
- Drug and alcohol treatment ordered by the court
- 48 hours – 6 months jail time
There is yet another set of penalties for motorists who are found operating their vehicle with a BAC of 0.16% and higher. While this, too, is an ungraded misdemeanor, the penalties are much higher. Defendants charged with a first-time DUI offense for the state’s highest blood alcohol concentration can expect the following penalties:
- 12-month license suspension
- A prison sentence ranging between 72 hours to 6 months
- Fines ranging between $1,000 to $5,000
- Mandatory DUI classes
- Drug and alcohol treatment ordered by the court
The Keystone State has an Occupational Limited License (OLL) available to first-time DUI offenders who have served 60 days of their suspension.
The penalties for a first-time DUI offense in Pennsylvania are substantial and can result in lasting consequences. As such, defendants can benefit from enlisting legal counsel to more effectively avoid the worst-case scenario when battling DUI charges.