Extreme DUI


Steven E. Kellis Extreme DUI In Pennsylvania, any BAC over 0.10 percent is considered extreme DUI. This is above the legal limit of 0.08 percent BAC. If you are charged with an Extreme DUI, you will face harsh penalties. A high rate of blood alcohol is a BAC that is higher than 0.10 percent but lower than 0.16 percent. The highest rate of blood alcohol is when the driver has a BAC of .16 percent or higher. Drivers convicted of extreme DUI will face more substantial penalties, including longer jail time and higher penalty fees. Additionally, if a driver with a high rate of blood alcohol causes an accident with injuries, vehicle damage, or property damage, the penalties are further increased.

What Are Extreme DUI Sentencing Enhancements?

DUI in Pennsylvania is considered, in most cases, a misdemeanor. The maximum sentence for DUI convictions is typically two years imprisonment. Sentencing enhancements are based on two things:

If you have had any previous DUI convictions or dispositions under the current or prior DUI statutes in Pennsylvania or another state in the past ten years, these prior offenses will be considered for sentencing. Previous DUI convictions place you in a penalty category that has stricter punishments. Refusal to submit to a breathalyzer or blood test will be punished with possible jail time and fines. These enhanced penalties will be applied at sentencing, and the commonwealth must prove that you refused to apply penalties.

Fighting Extreme DUI Charges

Extreme DUI charges must be fought vigorously. It is essential to seek legal help as soon as possible after being arrested for DUI. Your attorney will immediately take action by reviewing the tests that were done. In many cases, the results of the test may not be correct. An experienced DUI attorney knows the laws and how to fight these charges best. Just because you took a breath or blood test doesn’t mean that it was administered correctly or that the results are correct. Your attorney will help you interpret and challenge the results.

What Are Potential DUI Penalties?

DUI penalties are increased for drivers convicted of extreme DUI in Philadelphia. First-time offenders convicted of DUI with a high rate of blood alcohol face a mandatory prison sentence of 48 hours and a fine of up to $5,000. They must attend driver alcohol highway safety school and other requirements at the judge’s discretion. This may include up to 150 hours of community service. If convicted of the highest rate of blood alcohol, the penalties increase. The penalties further increase for second or third-time offenders. Commercial vehicle drivers and school bus drivers face increased penalties as well.

What to Do If You Are Charged with Extreme DUI

Getting help from an experienced DUI attorney in Pennsylvania as soon as possible is essential. The first thing that your attorney will do is review the charges against you and fight to get these charges reduced or eliminated. Additionally, if you are in jail, your lawyer will represent you at your hearing and try to get your bail lowered. Once these crucial steps have been taken, your attorney will review the results of the BAC testing and the specifics of your traffic stop and arrest. An experienced DUI attorney will work to defend your case and maintain your legal rights. Talk to a courtroom-tested lawyer to assist in your defense.

Call the Law Offices of Steven E. Kellis today for a free consultation ((215) 940-1200) or complete our contact form.