Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Pennsylvania that can have life-altering consequences. If you are looking to learn more about DUI in PA and to avoid finding yourself on the wrong side of the law, this blog post is for you! Here are ten things you need to know about DUI in Pennsylvania.
- Legal Limit in PA
In Pennsylvania, the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08%. Going above this limit while driving can lead to DUI charges.
- Penalties for DUI
The penalties for a DUI offense can vary in severity depending on the level of impairment. Penalties can include fines, driver’s license suspension, community service, probation, and even imprisonment.
- Implied Consent Laws
In Pennsylvania, drivers are subject to an implied consent law. What this means is that by getting behind the wheel, you are automatically consenting to submit to chemical testing if you are suspected of DUI. Refusal to consent to testing can lead to additional penalties.
- Ignition Interlock Devices
If you have been convicted of DUI in Pennsylvania, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your car. This device works by requiring a breathalyzer test before you can start your car.
- First Offense Programs
Pennsylvania has a first-time offender program for individuals who have been charged with a DUI for the first time. This program can allow individuals to have their charges dropped or reduced upon completion of certain requirements.
- Repeat Offenders
Repeat DUI offenders in Pennsylvania can face increasingly harsh penalties, including longer jail sentences and longer driver’s license suspensions.
- Underage Drinking
In Pennsylvania, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to consume alcohol. If caught driving under the influence, underage drivers can face harsher penalties than those over the age of 21.
- Marijuana Use
Marijuana use is also illegal while driving in Pennsylvania. If faced with DUI marijuana charges, you can face similar penalties to those for alcohol DUI.
- Prescription Drugs
While prescription drugs are legal when prescribed by a doctor, they can still impair your driving ability. If you are caught driving under the influence of prescription drugs, you can face DUI charges.
- Hiring a Lawyer
Finally, if you are facing DUI charges in Pennsylvania, it is essential to hire a reputable DUI lawyer. A DUI lawyer can fight on your behalf, help you understand your rights, and provide valuable legal advice.
In conclusion, DUI in Pennsylvania is a serious offense that can have life-changing consequences. It is important to understand the legal limit, penalties, implied consent laws, ignition interlock devices, first offense programs, repeat offender penalties, underage drinking laws, marijuana use, prescription drugs, and the importance of hiring a DUI lawyer. By staying informed and being aware of these ten things, you can help avoid DUI charges and ensure that you stay on the right side of the law.
You need more than just one good DUI lawyer. You need the best. You need a team of experienced DUI lawyers fighting for you. Contact Lee Ciccarelli, and his team of West Chester, Pennsylvania DUI lawyers.
Watch out. There’s a lot of former prosecutors boasting about their experience: experience putting people just like you behind bars. Instead, look to Lee Ciccarelli and his team with nearly 100 years of experience fighting for clients facing the penalties of a DUI.
Contact Chester County DUI Defense Attorney
It may be possible to fight your Pennsylvania DUI charge and win, but you’ll never know if you plead guilty without first exploring your options. Ciccarelli Law Offices can review your case to determine whether the local Pennsylvania district attorney’s case has weaknesses that are open to challenge. We will prepare each case as though it is going to trial to insure preparation and thorough understanding and will take the case to trial if you are not satisfied with the resolution that is offered. We strive to be zealous advocates and always try to obtain the best results for our clients.
We are based in West Chester PA (Chester County) in Suburban Philadelphia and represent individuals charged with Drunk Driving, DUI, Driving After Imbibing cases Throughout Pennsylvania including but not limited to Philadelphia, Lancaster, Allentown, Oxford Exton Phoenixville Parkesburg Malvern Coatesville Lionville Chesterbrook Devon Newtown Square Glen Mills Pottstown Downingtown Kennett Square King of Prussia Paoli and beyond.
You deserve a West Chester Pennsylvania DUI lawyer that is available when you need him, treats you with respect, and protects your rights vigorously. For more information or to schedule an appointment with an experienced Pennsylvania DUI Attorney at Ciccarelli Law Offices, by contacting us at (610) 692-8700 or toll free at (877) 529-2422.