Virginia's Checkpoint Strikeforce Initiative

August 12, 2011 (Press-News.org) Virginia's Checkpoint Strikeforce Initiative

In an effort to reduce the number of crashes related to drinking and driving, the Commonwealth of Virginia has joined 12 other states that conduct weekly DUI checkpoints. The Checkpoint Strikeforce Initiative is a joint effort between the Virginia Highway Safety Office and law enforcement agencies throughout the state.

According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, the DUI checkpoints resulted in over 36,000 DUI arrests state-wide in 2009, averaging out to over 100 arrests per day.

In Virginia, getting caught driving under the influence, which requires a blood alcohol content level of .08, can be inconvenient, embarrassing and affect the driver's freedom and pocketbook. Conviction for a first offense carries a mandatory fine of $250 and possible license suspension.

Subsequent Convictions and Penalties

A driver with a second DUIconviction faces a minimum fine of $500, three-year license revocation and up to one year in jail. If the second offense occurs within 10 years of the first, there is a mandatory minimum of 10 days in jail. Should the second offense occur within five years of the first, the mandatory minimum jail time increases to 20 days. Subsequent convictions also require the driver to use an ignition interlock system.

Third and subsequent offenses are treated even more harshly and are considered felonies under Virginia law. A third DUI conviction requires a fine of $1,000 and indefinite license revocation. Additionally, if an individual is arrested for DUI a third time within a five-year period, a conviction carries a minimum six-month jail term. A third conviction within 10 years will result in a 90-day jail term. A fourth conviction carries a mandatory minimum penalty of one year in jail, along with increased fines.

It's important to remember that DUIs are not traffic violations, but criminal offenses. The fines involved are not the only costs associated with the charge. Other expenses drivers might incur include court costs, the cost of an ignition interlock device, higher insurance rates and potential impacts on their employment.

If You are Facing Charges, Get Help

Drunk driving charges can affect your family, your job and your freedom. If you are facing drunk driving charges, it is important to contact an experienced attorney to discuss your case.

Article provided by Montagna & Montagna, P.C.
Visit us at http://www.montagnalaw.com