Driving While Impaired (DWI) Fines, Traffic Points and Defense

Driving while impaired, also commonly known as DWI, is a serious offense in all states within the USA. Driving while impaired often includes having a blood alcohol content of 0.8 or greater, but even those driving erratically with less than a 0.8 BAC can be found guilty of impaired driving. This charge can also occur is someone is impaired by any type of drug, including prescription or over the counter types of medications.  It is estimated by MADD that annually approximately 159 million drivers operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and that one in three people will be involved in a crash sometime in their life where at least one driver has been driving.

Fines And Penalties

In most states serious fines including jail time can be ordered for a first offense, with subsequent offenses considerably more significant. Most states allow for fines of up to and over $2000.00 for a first offense, plus up to 180 days in jail. With other associated accidents or charges this can easily include much more jail time. Alcohol awareness classes and community service are also typically ordered.

Points And Impact On Driving Record/License

When stopped for a DWI in most states the driver's license is immediately suspended, some states allow for the license to be reinstated under specific conditions while others do not. In addition this type of offense stays on your driving record and can result in loss of license under repeated offenses or offenses while priors are still on the record.

Hiring A Lawyer To Defend a DWI

Hiring an attorney to defend a DWI is essential as there are defenses that can be presented that can include mitigating factors. In addition an attorney may be able to have the sentence reduced or deferred, which may help in keeping your insurance carrier as well as your job.