Enhancements

DUI enhancements are stiffer penalties that may be added by the prosecution against drivers who are arrested for a DUI or driving under the influence. The types of enhancements and the reasons that they are used can vary by state, but they generally include aggravating circumstances such as:

• Child Endangerment - Some states allow for enhancement penalties for drivers who are under the influence with a minor in the car. Age ranges can include 14 - 18 years.
• Prior DUI or DWI convictions - Every state allows for stiffer DUI penalties for any driver that has been arrested previously for DUI.
• Excessive speed or causing an accident
• Refusing to take a blood alcohol test - Some states allow for the immediate revocations of a drivers license or mandatory jail time for refusing to take a BAC test
• DUI arrest with an excessive BAC (between 0.15% - 0.20%).
• Property damage
• Bodily injury
• Driving without a valid drivers license
• On probation for another crime at the time of the DUI arrest
• Driving with an open container of alcohol in the car

Increased penalties may include higher fines, mandatory jail time and longer license suspensions. Enhancement laws vary by state. Contact a DWI lawyer for more information.