A drunk driving charge can lead to many complications. Dealing with the aftermath of an arrest and the potential penalties for a conviction can be stressful and fill one with uncertainty. However, when a DWI arrest includes exceptional circumstances, a New York driver may have even more to fear. Some factors can add to the severity of a DWI charge and may result in felony charges.
For example, police arrested a man for driving while intoxicated one recent afternoon. The 61-year-old man drove his car up to a police officer and asked a question. The officer apparently suspected the man had been drinking and observed him as he drove away. Reports indicate that the officer noticed the man’s vehicle swerving between lanes, so he pulled the man over to investigate.
The results of the traffic stop included charges for felony DWI. The stringent laws in New York make DWI a felony on the second offense. This driver apparently had a previous conviction within the past 10 years. Additionally, his blood alcohol content was significantly higher than the legal limit of .08, resulting in a second felony charge.
Facing felony violations means the possibility of mandatory jail time and thousands in fines. A felony DWI count can also complicate many other areas of a person’s life. This is why it is important for those in New York facing any drunk driving charges, especially those that may be felonies, to consider obtaining skilled legal counsel to improve the chances of reaching the most positive outcome possible.