In Connecticut, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This criminal offense can result in serious penalties that can have a major impact on your life.
A person is legally intoxicated if his or her blood alcohol content (BAC) reaches 0.08% or higher. If the driver is under the age of 21, he or she may receive a DUI if his or her BAC is 0.02% or higher.
A DUI conviction can lead to administrative penalties, such as the revocation or suspension of your driver’s license. Additionally, you could face the following criminal penalties based on the number of previous offenses:
First Offense: This crime is punishable by a maximum of six months in prison and up to $1,000 in fines. In some cases, the prison sentence is suspended, and the driver is required to complete 100 hours of community service.
Second Offense: If this offense is the driver’s second DUI conviction within a 10-year period, he or she could face up to two years in prison. The driver may pay up to $4,000 in fines and complete 100 hours of community service during probation. The court may also require the driver to attend a drug and alcohol treatment program.
Third Offense: If the driver commits three DUIs within a three-year period, he or she could face up to 3 years in prison and up to $8,000 in fines. The driver will need to complete 100 hours of community service and may also need to attend a drug and alcohol treatment program.
If the driver causes an accident, someone’s death, or any property damage, these penalties can be enhanced. For example, if someone dies in a DUI accident, the intoxicated driver could be charged with second-degree manslaughter and face serious penalties like prison time.