Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) is operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or other substances. It is illegal in New York and punishable with fines, jail time, license suspension/revocation, community service, and more. DUI/DWI charges can also lead to increased car insurance rates and legal issues that may affect your future.
If you are charged with a DUI/DWI in Coram, the serious legal consequences can have a long-term impact on your life. It is vital to seek experienced and compassionate legal representation from a DUI/DWI attorney in Coram, Long Island, NY who understands the complexities of these cases.
The Roche Law Group offers just that, providing their clients with dedicated guidance and zealous advocacy throughout their case.
New York Laws on DUI/DWI
Inebriated drivers cause more than 17,000 deaths annually. In New York, drunk driving is associated with an injury every two minutes.
To combat this epidemic, the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law states that driving a motor vehicle with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of .08% is considered unlawful. However, it is still illegal to drive while impaired by drugs or alcohol even if the BAC is less than .08%.
Penalties for DUI/DWI Violations in Coram
In New York, the consequences of being convicted of DUI/DWI can be severe and contingent on the gravity of the offense and the defendant’s criminal history. With decades of experience, our legal experts can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system in such cases.
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) – V.T.L 1192.2 et.al or 1192.3
Applicable to commercial drivers caught with a BAC level of .04 and beyond, non-commercial drivers with a .08 BAC level, and drug-impaired drivers.
- First Offense: Up to one year in jail, a $500 to $1,000 fine, and six months license revocation.
- Second Offense: Up to four years in jail, a $1,000 to $5,000 fine, and a minimum of one-year license revocation if a DWI charge was incurred within the past 10 years.
- Third Offense: Seven years in jail, a $2,000 to $10,000 penalty, and a minimum one-year license revocation if charged within the past 10 years.
- * Commercial Drivers are subject to enhanced penalties*.
Driving While Impaired by Alcohol – V.T.L 1192.1
The defendant’s BAC level is between .05 and .07, or their driving ability was impaired by alcohol.
- First Offense: Maximum of 15 days of jail time, a $300 to $500 fine, and at least 90 days of license revocation.
- Second Offense: Maximum of 30 days of jail time, a $500 to $750 fine, and a minimum of one-year license revocation if charges within the past 10 years.
- Third Offense: This is a misdemeanor offense, subject to not more than 180 days of jail time; a fine between $750 and $1500, and a minimum of 6 months license revocation, if charged within the past 10 years.
- * Commercial Drivers are subject to enhanced penalties*.
Driving While Ability Impaired by a Single Drug Other Than Alcohol V.T.L 1192.4
- First Offense: 364 days in jail, a $500 to $1000 fine, and a 180-day license revocation.
- Second Offense: Four years in jail, a $1,000 to $5,000 fine, and a minimum of 1 year of license revocation if charged within the last 10 years.
- Third Offense: Seven years in jail, a $2,000 to $10,000 fine, and a minimum of one-year license revocation if charged within the last 10 years.
Driving While Ability Impaired by Both Drugs and Alcohol V.T.L 1192.4A
- First Offense: One year in jail, a $500 to $700 fine, and six-month license revocation
- Second Offense: Four years in jail, a $1,000 to $5,000 fine, and a minimum of six months license revocation if charged within the last 10 years.
- Third Offense: Seven years in jail, a $2,000 to $10,000 fine, and a minimum of one-year license revocation if charged within the last 10 years.
Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated in Violation of V.T.L. 1192.2A
The Defendant’s BAC level is at .18 or higher.
- First Offense: If convicted, will be a misdemeanor; Up to one year in jail, a fine between $1,000 and $2500 and 1 year suspension of license.
- Second Offense: Up to four years in jail, a $1,000 to $5,000 fine, and a minimum of one-year license revocation if a DWI charge was incurred within the past 10 years.
- Third Offense: Seven years in jail, a $2,000 to $10,000 penalty, and a minimum one-year license revocation if charged within the past 10 years.
*Commercial Drivers are subject to enhanced penalties*.
Note: All V.T.L. § 1192. Convictions, except §1192.1, require the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device for a definite period as mandated by law.
Reasons to Hire a DUI/DWI Lawyer
A DUI/DWI lawyer in Coram is trained to provide legal representation and knowledgeable guidance throughout your case. Working with a dedicated attorney gives you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome.
Attorney, Olivier E. Roche, will also help you understand the laws in Coram, the penalties associated with a conviction, ways to mitigate the charges or consequences, and other legal defenses that may be available.
Consult Our Legal Experts
If you have been charged with a DUI/DWI in Coram, seek experienced and compassionate legal representation from Roche Law Group. We offer individualized attention to every client, ensuring you are supported through every step of your case.
Schedule an initial consultation today to discuss your case and learn more about how we can help. You may also fill out the inquiry form on this page.