If you have been arrested for a DUI in New Kensington, PA, you’re probably feeling scared, uncertain and slightly embarrassed. The DUI attorneys at Bitar & Bitar, LLP will treat your case as the serious matter it is, advising you of your legal rights and options following your arrest.  Be prepared by calling us and scheduling a FREE consultation. Time is of the essence, and in order to ensure the best possible outcome to your case, you need to seek the legal advice of a lawyer right away.

After your DUI arrest, you probably have a lot of questions and fear regarding your future. Because of that, the DUI attorneys at Bitar & Bitar, LLP have put together a list of three factors you need to know about the charges against you.

3 Facts to Understand About Your DUI Arrest

1. There Are Three Levels of a DUI Charge

In Pennsylvania, you can be guilty of one of three levels of DUI: General Impairment (.08 to .099% BAC), High BAC (.10 to .159% BAC) or Highest BAC (.16% and higher). Individuals with two or more prior General Impairment DUI convictions are guilty of a second degree misdemeanor and subject to up to two years in prison, a $5,000 fine, and one year of driving on a suspended license with an Ignition Interlock Device. Those guilty of a Highest BAC DUI are subject to up to five years in prison, a $10,000 fine, 18 months driving on a suspended license and one year with an Ignition Interlock Device.

2. The Non-Monetary Consequences for Driving Under the Influence Can Be Serious

Drunk drivers are responsible for nearly 10,000 deaths each year, accounting for more than one-third of all traffic-related deaths annually. If you kill or injure someone while driving under the influence, you will not only have to live with that on your conscience, but you will be subject to felony DUI charges and a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.

3. You Will Need to Appear in Court

Your ticket will tell you the date and time of your first court appearance, which you must attend in order to enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. The DUI attorneys at Bitar & Bitar, LLP do not recommend appearing in court alone unless you are willing and ready to accept the maximum penalties for the offense. Keep in mind if you plead guilty to a Highest BAC DUI offense, and it is your second offense, you face a maximum prison sentence of five years.

While it is always recommended to consult with a DUI attorney following your arrest, there are some instances where working with an attorney means the difference between probation and prison. If you were arrested for driving under the influence in Pennsylvania, call Bitar & Bitar, LLP at (724) 339-1025 for a free legal consultation. To learn more about the invaluable experience and knowledge their firm brings to the table, visit their website.