Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most serious offenses you can commit on the road. When intoxicated driving results in harm to another person, the legal consequences become significantly more severe. If you caused injuries while driving drunk in Pennsylvania, you may face criminal charges, substantial penalties, and even prison time. Understanding the legal implications, potential defenses, and the importance of experienced legal representation can make all the difference in protecting your rights and future.
This blog will provide a comprehensive overview of the charges you may face, the penalties associated with DUI-related injuries, and why securing skilled legal counsel is critical in navigating the complex legal system.
Charges You May Face When Your DUI Causes Injury
Pennsylvania law takes injuries caused by driving under the influence extremely seriously. Several charges may apply depending on the severity of the injuries, the circumstances of the incident, and your prior criminal history.
1. DUI with General Impairment or High BAC
If you were arrested for a standard DUI but no special circumstances are present, you may still face significant penalties if someone was injured as a result of your actions. Under Pennsylvania law, the penalties for DUI escalate with higher blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels and prior offenses.
- General Impairment DUI: BAC of 0.08%-0.099%.
- High BAC DUI: BAC of 0.10%-0.159%.
- Highest BAC DUI: BAC of 0.16% or higher.
Any of these charges may be compounded if injuries occurred, elevating potential penalties beyond standard DUI consequences.
2. Aggravated Assault by Vehicle While DUI
One of the most common charges in cases involving DUI-related injuries is aggravated assault by vehicle while DUI. This serious felony charge applies if prosecutors prove that your intoxicated driving caused serious bodily injury to another person.
- Serious Bodily Injury Defined: Pennsylvania defines serious bodily injury as any injury that creates a substantial risk of death, causes permanent disfigurement, or results in prolonged loss or impairment of a body function.
- Felony Classification: This charge is classified as a second-degree felony, carrying the potential for significant prison time.
3. Vehicular Homicide While DUI
If the injuries caused by your drunk driving result in someone’s death, you may face vehicular homicide charges in addition to DUI. Vehicular homicide while DUI is one of the most severe charges you can face in Pennsylvania, often leading to lengthy imprisonment.
- Felony Classification: This charge is a second-degree felony with mandatory minimum sentences.
4. Additional Charges
Depending on the specifics of the case, additional charges could include:
- Reckless Endangerment: Placing others in danger due to your actions.
- Child Endangerment: If a minor was in the vehicle at the time.
- Hit-and-Run Violations: Fleeing the scene after causing injury.
Each of these charges brings its own set of penalties, which may be imposed alongside DUI-related consequences.
Penalties for DUI with Injury in Pennsylvania
When someone is injured because of a DUI, the penalties are often far more severe than those imposed for standard DUI offenses. Factors such as the level of impairment, the extent of the injuries, and prior DUI convictions will influence sentencing.
1. Imprisonment
Prison sentences in DUI-related injury cases can range from months to years, depending on the charges. For aggravated assault by vehicle while DUI, penalties can include:
- Mandatory Minimum Sentence: Three to ten years in prison for serious injury cases.
- For vehicular homicide while DUI, sentences range from 3 to 10 years per death, with consecutive sentences possible for multiple fatalities.
2. Fines
Significant fines are a common penalty in DUI injury cases. These vary based on the severity of the charges but can range from $5,000 to $25,000 or more for felony offenses.
3. License Suspension
If convicted, your driver’s license may be suspended for an extended period:
- Typically 12 to 18 months for most DUI-related injuries.
- Longer suspensions may apply for repeat offenders or felony convictions.
4. Probation and Parole
Defendants convicted of injury-related DUI offenses may be subject to probation or parole conditions, including:
- Attending alcohol rehabilitation programs.
- Performing community service.
- Regular check-ins with a probation officer.
5. Restitution
You may be required to compensate victims for medical expenses, lost income, or other damages arising from the incident.
6. Long-Term Consequences
Felony or DUI convictions can have lasting effects on your personal and professional life, including difficulty finding employment, the loss of certain rights (e.g., gun ownership), and damage to your reputation.
Factors That Influence Sentencing
Several factors can impact the severity of the penalties imposed in DUI-related injury cases:
1. Severity of Injuries
If the injuries sustained by the victim are classified as serious or life-threatening, the penalties will likely be more severe.
2. Prior DUI Convictions
Repeat DUI offenders face heightened penalties. Pennsylvania law imposes escalating consequences for each subsequent offense.
3. BAC Level
Higher BAC levels at the time of arrest can result in more severe charges and penalties.
4. Aggravating Circumstances
Additional factors, such as driving without a valid license, speeding, or fleeing the scene, can influence the court’s decision.
5. Cooperation with Law Enforcement
Failing to cooperate with police or showing a lack of remorse during the investigation may negatively impact sentencing.
Why Legal Representation Is Vital
Defending against DUI charges involving injuries is a highly complex process requiring a thorough understanding of case law, evidence, and procedural rules. Experienced legal representation is critical in achieving the best possible outcome in your case.
How an Attorney Can Help
- Challenge Evidence: Your lawyer will scrutinize the validity of evidence, such as breathalyzer results or field sobriety tests, for procedural errors or inaccuracies.
- Negotiate Plea Deals: Defense attorneys can negotiate with prosecutors to secure reduced charges or alternative sentencing, such as rehab programs instead of incarceration.
- Build a Strong Defense: From questioning the legality of the traffic stop to highlighting mitigating circumstances, a skilled attorney will explore every avenue to defend your rights.
- Protect Your Future: By challenging flawed evidence and procedural mistakes, your attorney can help reduce or eliminate the penalties you face.
Why Ciccarelli Law Offices?
At Ciccarelli Law Offices, we bring decades of experience to the table in defending clients against DUI charges in Pennsylvania. Our expert attorneys understand the high stakes of these cases and work tirelessly to protect your rights, reduce penalties, and safeguard your future.
With offices in West Chester and serving communities throughout Pennsylvania, our team is ready to provide the compassionate and aggressive advocacy you need.
Final Thoughts
Causing injury while driving under the influence is a grave offense that carries serious legal, financial, and personal consequences. However, understanding your rights and seeking experienced legal representation can make all the difference in defending your case.
If you or a loved one is facing DUI injury charges in Pennsylvania, don’t wait to act. Contact Ciccarelli Law Offices today for a confidential consultation. Our dedicated attorneys are here to fight for justice, protect your rights, and secure the best possible outcome for your case.