If you already have a DUI conviction in Erie, Pennsylvania, a second potential conviction puts you at a significant risk. The penalties for a second DUI conviction increase substantially compared to a first offense, and those penalties include a mandatory driver’s license suspension.
Driver’s License Suspensions for a Second Pennsylvania DUI Conviction
Depending on your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in a second Pennsylvania DUI case, the length of your driver’s license suspension for a conviction is:
- For a BAC of 0.08 percent to 0.099 percent, 12 months
- For a BAC of 0.10 percent to 0.159 percent, 12 months
- For a BAC of 0.16 percent or higher, 18 months
Mandatory Ignition Interlock Periods After a Second Pennsylvania DUI
Pennsylvania drivers convicted of a second DUI offense face additional restrictions on their driving privileges even after their license suspension ends. The state requires drivers to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle for one year once their driver’s license suspension is complete. These devices require you to blow into a reader to see if you have alcohol in your system before you can start your car. If the device detects alcohol in your body, it keeps your car from starting.
Other Penalties for a Second DUI Conviction in Pennsylvania
Along with a driver’s license suspension and having to install an ignition interlock device, the other penalties you might face for a second DUI conviction in Pennsylvania include:
General Impairment (BAC between 0.08 to 0.099 percent):
- Jail Time – At least 5 days, up to six months
- Fines – Between $300 and $2,500
- Alcohol Highway Safety School – Mandatory attendance
- Treatment – If the court orders it
High BAC (0.10 to 0.159 percent):
- Jail Time – At least 30 days, up to six months
- Fines – Between $750 and $5,000
- Alcohol Highway Safety School – Mandatory attendance
- Treatment – If the court orders it
Highest BAC (0.16 percent or) or Controlled Substances:
- Jail Time – At least 90 days, up to five years
- Fines – Between $1,500 and $10,000
- Alcohol Highway Safety School – Mandatory attendance
- Treatment – If the court orders it
Defending Against a Second DUI Charge in Erie, Pennsylvania
At McCormick and Vilushis, we understand how stressful it can be to face a second DUI charge, and we’re here to help. Our team will carefully review every detail of your case to build a strong defense. We can challenge the accuracy of breathalyzer or blood test results, especially if the testing equipment wasn’t properly calibrated or maintained. If the officer didn’t follow proper procedures during the stop, arrest, or testing, we could argue that the evidence should be suppressed, which could lead to reduced or dismissed charges.
We aim to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and pursue the best possible outcome for your case. Call McCormick and Vilushis now or reach out online for a consultation with our Erie County, Pennsylvania, drunk driving defense lawyers.