Driving under the influence is a serious offense that has severe consequences. In Pennsylvania, the legal repercussions for a DUI can escalate from a misdemeanor to a felony under certain circumstances.
Felony DUI convictions in Pennsylvania come with more severe penalties than misdemeanors. Offenders may face substantial fines, extended license suspension, mandatory alcohol treatment programs and even incarceration. Understanding when a DUI becomes a felony is important for anyone navigating the complexities of the state’s legal system.
Aggravating factors
Several factors can turn a standard DUI into a felony in Pennsylvania. A key factor is the number of prior convictions. If an individual has received convictions for DUI multiple times, the likelihood of facing felony charges increases. This is especially true if a driver gets multiple DUIs within a 10-year span. Also, if a DUI incident involves serious injury or death to another person, it can lead to felony charges.
Blood alcohol content levels
Pennsylvania also considers the driver’s blood alcohol content when determining the severity of DUI charges. The legal limit for BAC is 0.08%. Having an exceptionally high BAC, typically above 0.16%, can result in more severe consequences. If a driver has a BAC at or above this level, it may escalate the offense to a felony.
The Pennsylvania Pressroom reports that state troopers made 18,412 DUI arrests statewide in 2020. They also investigated 4,157 crashes involving impaired driving that year. Taking proactive measures helps motorists avoid the serious legal ramifications associated with felony DUI convictions in Pennsylvania.
