Most people in Philadelphia understand that drinking and driving is dangerous and against the law. However, that does not stop everyone from doing it. There are many instances when a person may not think they are over the legal limit or do not feel drunk. Other times the person may only need to drive a short distance to get home and does not think it is a big deal. Whatever the reason for driving, if the police stops the driver, they may be charged with a DUI.
If the person is ultimately convicted of the DUI he or she may be facing some serious consequences. These include fines and possible jail time. Convictions also may result in a license suspension for a period of time and need to install ignition interlock in their vehicle. The person will also be ordered to attend a driving safety class.
Any person convicted of a first or second DUI offense must attend an Alcohol Highway Safety School class. This class must include at least 12 ½ hours of training. The training is divided into five components.
The first consists of explaining the purpose of the class and expectations, explaining DUI law in Pennsylvania, and demonstrating the relationship between drunk driving and crashes. The second consists of describing how alcohol or controlled substances affect the body, behavior and decision making. The third explains how drinking alcohol effects driving and the basics of addiction. The fourth explains how a DUI affects a person’s personal and family life and provides information on treatment services. The fifth provides information on how to prevent future DUIs and tests what a person learned through the class.
Many people are convicted of DUIs each year in Philadelphia and will have to attend a safety class described above. There are also other significant penalties the person may face. However, there may be defenses available for a person charged with a DUI, which may enable them to avoid these penalties. Experienced DUI attorneys understand these defenses and may be able to protect one’s rights.
Source: The Pennsylvania Code, “Chapter 94. Alcohol Highway Safety Schools and Driving Under the Influence Program Coordinators” accessed on April 27, 2015
