No one ever expects to be pulled over and arrested for driving under the influence (DUI). But it happens. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to understand how DUI laws in Utah can affect you and where to go if you get one.
How You Can be Affected by the Utah DUI Laws
For starters, a DUI conviction will go on your criminal record. This can make it difficult to get a job, rent an apartment, or take out a loan. A DUI can also result in a loss of driving privileges. In some cases, you may even have to spend time in jail.
You can be charged with DUI even if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is below the legal limit of 0.08%. If the arresting officer believes you are impaired and not able to safely operate a vehicle, you can be charged.
Also, Utah has what’s known as an “implied consent” law . This means that if you are pulled over and asked to take a chemical test to determine your BAC, you are required by law to comply. If you refuse, you will automatically lose your driver’s license for at least 18 months.
The penalties for a DUI depend on several factors, including your blood alcohol content (BAC), whether you have any prior DUI convictions, and whether anyone was injured as a result of your drunk driving.
If your BAC is above the limit, you will be charged with DUI. If your BAC is 0.15% or higher, you will be charged with aggravated DUI.
What Each Offense Means for You
The penalties for a first-time DUI in Utah are a fine of up to $1,000, jail time of up to 180 days, and a license suspension of up to 120 days. If your BAC is 0.15% or higher, the penalties increase to a fine of up to $2,500, jail time of up to 270 days, and a license suspension of up to 18 months.
If you are convicted of DUI, you will also be required to attend a mandatory alcohol education and treatment program. You may also be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.
A second DUI conviction within 10 years will result in harsher penalties, including a fine of up to $2,500, jail time of up to 365 days, and a license suspension of up to 2 years. If your BAC is 0.15% or higher, the penalties increase to a fine of up to $5,000, jail time of up to 545 days, and a license suspension of up to 3 years.
A third DUI conviction within 10 years is a felony offense. The penalties include a fine of up to $5,000, jail time of up to 545 days, and a license suspension of up to 3 years. You will also be required to attend a mandatory alcohol education and treatment program and install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.
Aftermath of Getting A DUI in Utah
If you are convicted of DUI, the court may order you to pay restitution to any victim injured as a result of your drunk driving. If someone is killed as a result of your drunk driving, you may be charged with vehicular homicide, which is a felony offense. The penalties for vehicular homicide include up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
As you can see, the penalties for DUI in Utah are serious. The best way to avoid the penalties and consequences of a DUI is to simply not drink and drive. If you are facing DUI charges, it’s important to talk to an experienced DUI attorney who can help you understand your rights and options. An attorney can also help you try to avoid a conviction and the harsh penalties that come with it.
