Utah DWI Penalties

Driving while intoxicated is a major problem in today'sIntoxicated are classified as Class B Misdemeanors) in
society especially in Utah. Every car needs insurancegeneral. The repercussions of which consist of a fine
and there are no legal rules that regulate the amountof up to a 2,000 dollars and up to six months in county
of premium that can be changed from those whojail. Generally, however, a first conviction will not require
have been convicted under DWI.jail time, but probation for up to two years. Probation in
DUIs versus DWIsthe state ofUtah has many requirements such as DWI
Many people confuse DUIs (driving under the influence)programs, community service hours and other
with DWIs (driving while intoxicated). Both crimesconditions that the Court may require.
pertain to driving while under the influence of a mindA Second DWI Conviction or commitment is
altering drug, the repercussions of each are quiteconsidered a Class A Misdemeanor and is punishable
different.by up to 12 months in the county jail and a 4,000 dollar
A DWI, is considered a more serious offense. In Utah,fine. A mandatory or compulsory driver's license
anyone over the age of 21 may be consideredsuspension requirement would be required, and a
intoxicated if:a) They do not have normal use of theirpunishment from six months to two years is imposed
physical and/or mental faculties due to the presencefor second and subsequent DWI convictions.
of alcohol, drugs, or controlled substances in theirA third or more DWI is a third degree felony with a
system. This also includes medication prescriptions thatpunishment range of two to ten years in prison and up
may worsen or impair one's driving capabilitiesto a 10,000 dollar fine. Secondary and successive DWI
because of the toxins in the body.b) They have aconvictions also have mandatory driver's license
blood alcohol level (BAC) that reaches or exceeds.08.suspension and requirements which will vary from six
This can be determined by a breathalyzer test or amonths to two years.
blood sample.If an individual is driving while intoxicated or the person
In Utah, police officers have the ability to charge ais driving while drunk and a child under the age of 15 is
driver with a DWI even if their BAC is beneath thein the car with them, the driver may be charged with a
legal limit.felony DWI, as well. Punishments are equivalent to a
Differences in Sentencingthird degree felony. If you have been charged with a
Depending on the situation or conditions ratherDUI, DWI, or felony DWI in Utah, it is important that you
surrounding your charge, you may have differentreceive the help of an experienced DWI attorney.
charges against you. It could be with a DUI, DWI, or aFor more information about Utah DUI Classes please
felony DWI.check out the Positive Adjustments Program.
Primary or initial offense, DWIs ( Driving While