Intoxication Assault

State laws in every state make it illegal to operate a motorized vehicle if a driver is impaired by alcohol or drugs. States have imposed severe penalties for drivers who are arrested while driving under the influence of alcohol. Drivers who are intoxicated and commit a criminal offense such as manslaughter or assault face increased penalties.

Intoxication assault can include a variety of illegal actions including:

• Injuring a pedestrian with a motorized vehicle and causing them bodily harm
• Assembling an amusement ride while intoxicated which causes bodily harm to a passenger
• Injuring another person while operating a motorized vehicle (motorized vehicle can include, not only a car, but a motorcycle, boat, airplane or amusement ride)
• Colliding with another car while under the influence of alcohol or drugs and physically injuring a passenger or another driver

If you have caused an accident or injury while intoxicated and the injuries sustained by the injured parties were a direct result of your actions, you may be charged with intoxication assault. Penalties for intoxication assault may vary by state and may be more severe if the injured individual has sustained serious bodily injury or death. Defendants who have prior criminal convictions may also face stiffer penalties. DUI penalties for intoxication assault include:

• Extended community service
• Incarceration in a state penitentiary
• Probation
• Alcohol educational classes
• High fines
• Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device installation

(See also DWI assault)