Drivers over 21 can be charged with a DUI if their blood alcohol content is over 0.08. All drivers can be charged with a DUI if their blood alcohol content is lower than this threshold but the alcohol is impairing their ability to drive. Drivers under 21 will be charged with a DUI with as low of a BAC as 0.01.
If you’re charged with a DUI in California, you face a $2300-$2500 fine which includes the penalty assessment and the possibility of a weekend in jail or 5 days community service. There is a 30 days loss of license and 5-10 months restricted license on average, depending on your blood alcohol level. Also, you have to do a 6 month alcohol school.
On the second offense, the jail time is between 10 days and 1 year, and the fine is as much as $3000. The period of license suspension increases to 1-2 years. For the third offense, jail time ranges between 120 days and a year. The license suspension is 3 years for the third offense.
In many parts of the state, an ignition interlock device must be installed in the vehicle after the first offense. In all areas of the state, an ignition interlock device is following the second offense and any subsequent offenses.
The fourth offense is charged as a felony. For a fourth offense, one could spend as much as 16 months in prison and be fined $18,000. The license suspension is 4 years.
Our attorneys can help you to fight DUI tickets and possibly get them dismissed or get the fine and/or points associated with the ticket reduced. Call or contact us today for your free consultation.
