About Felony DUI

Felony Class C - If you’re pulled over for suspected drunk driving - say, you are swerving and speeding, or neglecting to follow traffic signals - then you may face a DUI charge. Usually in the state of Washington, driving under the influence is considered to be a gross misdemeanor. Offenders face a fine of almost $5000 and a jail sentence of up to one year.

In certain cases , however , DUI is viewed as a felonious offense. Drivers who are unfortunate enough to receive a transgression DUI charge face much more tough penalties.

What’s a felony?

In the US, a transgression is defined as any criminal act that is punishable by over a year in prison. Offenses that warrant a felony label have a tendency to be more significant deeds, such as robbery, fraud, and murder. DUI can be placed on the same level as these grave actions if the offender meets certain requirements :

- has been charged with DUI three or more times in the past 10 years
- has traditionally been convicted of vehicular homicide or vehicular assault while under the influence
- commits DUI and vehicular attack or vehicular homicide at the same time

The final thing on that list of felonious DUIs will carry with it more severe consequences than the previous 2 because of the extensive and severe damage it causes.

The Penalties for felony DUI

In the state of Washington, transgression DUI is considered to be a Felony Class C. This category of felony is punishable by a maximum fine of $10,000 and a jail sentence of nearly 5 years. Such a felony charge , however , is not applicable to people who commit DUI and vehicular manslaughter or vehicular assault at the same time.

Vehicular homicide and vehicular attack are more serious felony actions that carry with them harsher punishments than transgression DUI. Vehicular assault is a Class B transgression, which is punishable by a fine of nearly $20,000 and a jail term of up to ten years. Vehicular murder is a Class A transgression, which is punishable by a fine of up to $50,000 and a maximum sentence of life in prison.