Driving your car under the influence may be one of the worst mistakes you could make in your life. Apart from facing jail time and severe fines, you could be why someone else dies or suffers fatal injuries. You also risk getting a criminal record that sticks by you for the rest of your life. Driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs is a serious offense that the law does not take lightly. Therefore, if you are wondering whether a DUI is a serious charge, the answer is yes. That is why finding the best DUI attorneys to assist you with the case is advisable. Let us look a bit deeper into the seriousness of DUI charges.

Level of Charges in DUI

There are different levels of DIU charges. These levels depend on how much you are intoxicated and how many times you have been charged with DUI within a particular period. However, the charges, fines, and jail time depends on the state. Officers use the blood alcohol test to determine the level of intoxication. They mainly require blood or breath tests. In other states, you may be charged for sitting in the driver’s seat even if you are not driving. You can also be charged with DUI when operating machines like a scooter, lawnmower, or watercraft. Therefore, if you have been charged with DUI, it is advisable to understand how the law operates in your state. Basically, there are three levels of DUI charges.

• Infraction

This is a minor charge if you are arrested for driving under the influence. This level applies to people, mostly under 21 years. One infraction applies on a BAC level of 0.5 and another with a 0.5-0.7. You must pay a fine, and the charge stays on your criminal record for some time.

• Misdemeanor

This is the next level of DUI charges that happens if your BAC level reads 0.8 and above. It is the most common level where people are charged for driving while impaired or without the help of others in the car. However, the charges can be severe if you have an accident involving minor injuries and damage.

• Felony

Felony is the most serious DUI charge. Often it happens when you drive under the influence, resulting in deadly injuries like broken bones, back injuries, neck injuries, concussions, and significant cuts. Furthermore, the offense increases if you were charged with another DUI less than ten years ago. You will also be charged with a felony if you are arrested more than four times within a specific period.

Summary

DUI is a severe offense that can cost you money and jail time. Furthermore, you will have a criminal record for the rest of your life. You may also have your driver’s license suspended for a certain period or until you meet specific requirements. In the worst cases, you may lose the license. Therefore, it is essential to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or any other drug that impairs your judgment. Ensure you can also get help from a DUI lawyer if charged with DUI since the consequences can be severe.