If you have already had three DUIs, you may be wondering what the penalties are for another. In many states, DUI penalties increase each time an individual is charged with drinking and driving.
Nearly 11,000 individuals died in drunk driving crashes in 2017, which is why the penalties for driving while intoxicated are so serious. The first three offenses are considered misdemeanors. A third DUI can land an individual a year in jail, up to $1,000 in fines, and three years of license suspension. What about a fourth DUI?
Penalties for a fourth DUI
California considers a fourth DUI a felony, which means the consequences of a drunk driver’s actions are much more severe. Penalties one can expect include:
- Prison time: 16 months to four years
- Fines: Up to $18,000
- License suspension: Up to four years with the possibility of permanent suspension
- Driver status: Habitual traffic offender
- Ignition interlock device
How will a felony affect your life?
While the immediate consequences of a felony conviction are unpleasant to say the least, individuals who carry the title of convicted felon may find that other areas of their life are affected as well. Having a criminal record can make it difficult to obtain a job, pass a background check and sign a lease.
Obtaining a fourth DUI can be troubling both in the short and long term, which is why it is always crucial to make sure you never get behind the wheel if you think you could be legally intoxicated.
