A DWI charge can carry a range of penalties depending on the facts of the case. Certain factors can enhance your sentence, substantially increasing your time in jail or court fines. These are known as aggravating factors, and if they are present in your case, you need to take your defense seriously.
Below are some of the things that can enhance your penalties.
Multiple DWIs
The judge is likely to hand down a harsher sentence to a repeat offender upon conviction compared to a first offender. For instance, three or more convictions in North Carolina can result in a felony charge.
High blood alcohol levels
While anything beyond a blood alcohol concentration level of 0.08% is against the law, you will face more severe penalties if you have excessive levels of alcohol in your system.
DWI causing injury
If you caused an accident that resulted in an injury to the victim or property damage, it could enhance your DWI charges. Reckless driving will also increase the seriousness of your charges.
Minor present in the car
If you had a minor (anyone below 18 years) or a person with a disability that prevents unaided exit from the vehicle when you were arrested for drunk driving, it could aggravate your charges.
Other factors like driving with a revoked license or resisting arrest could also negatively affect your DWI case.
Are you being charged with drunk driving?
If you are facing DWI charges, it is advisable to have a careful evaluation of your case to determine the presence of any aggravating or mitigating factors that could affect its outcome.
Having all the necessary legal information regarding your case is critical. It will help you craft a defense strategy that will increase your chances of a successful outcome for your case.