There are consistently more than 10,000 fatalities and more than 290,000 injuries that are associated with impaired driving each year across the U.S. This problem continues despite massive advertising campaigns and educational initiatives that explain the dangers of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Pennsylvania's legislators, agencies of law enforcement, and the judicial system have all taken steps to address the problem recently.
Lehigh County Accident Data
|
2016 |
2017 |
|
|
Total Crashes |
4,971 |
5,141 |
|
Crashes Involving Impaired Driver |
405 |
396 |
|
Crashes Involving Speeding |
130 |
103 |
|
Crashes Involving Distracted Driving |
602 |
517 |
Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol
Pennsylvania law prohibits driving, operating, or maintaining control of a vehicle by an individual who is unable to safely control the vehicle due to alcohol consumption. Drivers are required to submit to chemical testing when law enforcement has reasonable grounds to suspect they are intoxicated. Refusing to submit to testing will result in a suspension of driving privileges. The legal limit that defines impairment is a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08%.
Operating Under the Influence of Controlled Substances
Drivers are prohibited from operating a vehicle when a Schedule I controlled substance or its metabolites exist in their blood. This also applies to Schedule II and III controlled substances that have not been prescribed by a doctor, as well as other solvents or noxious agents that create impairment.
Lehigh County Central Court for DUI Offenses
In 2019, the County administration implemented a Central DUI Court that is presided over by a Magisterial District Judge that seeks to better ensure compliance with state law, enhance efficiency, and lower costs.
Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD)
Lehigh County operates an ARD program, which is an alternative or diversionary option available to offenders including many charged with DUI for the first time. Those who are admitted to the program and complete it are eligible to have their offense expunged. Pennsylvania law states that a prior DUI is any conviction that has occurred in the past 10 years.
Ignition Interlock Program
Offenders may be required to install a device that requires a driver to submit a breath sample to start their vehicle. This is part of the County's overall program for DUI offenders that also includes treatment for drugs and alcohol, counseling, education, electronic monitoring, and drug testing.
Levels of Impairment (BAC)
|
General |
High |
Highest |
|
.08 to .10% |
.10 to .16% |
.16% or more |
Penalties for First Offense
General
- Minimum of six months of probation
- A fine of $300
- Attendance at approved DUI safety class
- Undergo assessment and possible treatment for drugs and/or alcohol
High
- Incarceration for at least 48 hours
- A fine of between $500 and $5,000
- Ignition interlock for 12 months
- Attendance at approved DUI safety class
- Undergo assessment and possible treatment for drugs and/or alcohol
Highest
- Incarceration for at least 72 hours
- A fine of between $1,000 and $5,000
- Ignition interlock for 12 months
- Attendance at approved DUI safety class
- Undergo assessment and possible treatment for drugs and/or alcohol
Pennsylvania DUI Defense Lawyer
Our Criminal Law Team understands the potential short and long-term ramifications of a DUI conviction. We will closely review the facts and evidence to devise a strategy of defense. Those facing such allegations in Lehigh County are encouraged to contact our office for a consultation at (888) 535-3686.
