There are 31 million drunk drivers on New York roads each year. To address this issue, this state's DWI laws are strict and heavily enforced, and a convicted drunk driver can face some serious penalties. Below, you’ll find an introduction to DWI laws in New York.

Types

There are several types of drunk driving crimes in New York. The most common is a DWI (driving while intoxicated), a charge of driving while intoxicated with a blood alcohol content of .08% or higher. An aggravated DWI is reserved for drivers with a BAC (blood alcohol content) of .18% or higher, or those driving with a passenger under 15 years old. A DWAI (driving while ability impaired), indicates that the driver had a BAC between .05% and .07%, and their capacity to safely operate a motor vehicle was dangerously diminished. A DWAI can also be linked to drug use.

First Offense

For a first-offense DWI, the driver will be fined anywhere from $500 to $1,000 and can be jailed for up to a year. They will lose their driver's license for a minimum of six months. As with all drunk driving penalties in New York, punishments are more severe for aggravated DWI charges and less severe for DWAIs.

Second Offense

A second offense DWI also comes with a $500 to $1,000 fine, but the other penalties are stricter. You could be sentenced to up to four years of jail time, and you will lose your license for an entire year. A second offense is defined as any offense that takes place within 10 years of the first.

Third Offense

If a third offense takes place within this same 10-year span, the driver can be fined between $2,000 to $10,000. A jail sentence of up to seven years may be imposed, as well as a minimum one-year license suspension.

Getting charged with a DWI or similar offense is nothing to take lightly. An attorney will help you navigate the complexities of the legal system, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you in all communications, hearings, and trials. Serving the Orange County, NY, area, the Monteleon Law Group offers services in a variety of legal areas, including DWI and criminal defenses, estate planning, and car accidents. Call (914) 840-2529 or visit them online to learn more about their legal services.