In Nevada, drivers are required by law to refrain from driving while intoxicated. Any violation of the law could lead to a conviction based on the defendant’s blood-alcohol content reading. An auto accident caused by a DUI could lead to additional criminal charges. A DUI attorney in Las Vegas, NV presents a defense for individuals arrested for this offense.
What Penalties Apply to a First Offense?
A convicted defendant spends between two days and six months in the county jail. As an alternative, they could receive between 24 and 96 hours of community services. Next, the defendant completes a state-approved DUI school. They pay the full cost of the school out of their own pocket. The applicable fines range between $400 and $1,000. Court costs are not included in these fines. Defendants with a blood-alcohol content reading of at least 0.18% must complete an alcohol or drug addiction treatment program. The defendant also receives a ninety-day driver’s license suspension.
What Is Aggravated DUI?
Aggravated DUI is an offense in which the blood-alcohol content reading exceeded 0.18%. The offense falls under this classification if minor below the age of fourteen was in the vehicle. Even if this was a first-time offense, an aggravated DUI charge requires an ignition interlocking device. The device must remain in the vehicle for up to three years.
What Happens After an Accident?
The outcome of an auto accident could lead to additional criminal charges. It is possible for a defendant to incur a charge of vehicular assault if they hit a pedestrian. If a victim dies, the defendant faces involuntary manslaughter or homicide. However, the state must prove that the criminal defendant caused the accident. An autopsy must show that the accident injuries caused the victim’s death.
In Nevada, drivers adhere to DUI laws to avoid a criminal conviction. However, defenses are available when the driver didn’t have any other choice but to drive. These defenses may include a fear for their life, coercion, or an inability to make a coherent decision.
