Driving under the influence in Wisconsin can lead to severe penalties, especially when an incident produces injuries. These penalties vary depending on the extent of injuries and other factors.
Understanding how injuries affect OWI penalties is helpful for drivers facing such charges.
Impact of injuries on OWI penalties
When injuries occur in OWI-related accidents, the penalties become more severe. If the accident causes bodily harm to another person, the driver may face enhanced charges, such as OWI causing injury or vehicular assault. The severity of the injuries and the driver’s prior OWI record can influence the penalties imposed.
OWI causing injury is a serious offense that carries harsh consequences. Drivers convicted of this offense face increased fines, longer license suspensions and mandatory participation in alcohol treatment programs. The severity of the injuries inflicted on the victim can also impact the length of imprisonment imposed on the driver.
Aggravating factors in OWI cases
Injuries resulting from OWI accidents constitute aggravating factors in sentencing. Courts may impose stricter penalties if the driver’s intoxication contributed to the severity of the injuries sustained by the victim. In addition to facing enhanced penalties, drivers convicted of OWI causing injury may have to pay restitution to the victims to cover medical expenses and other damages resulting from the accident.
Consequences for multiple offenses
For drivers with multiple OWIs, the presence of injuries in an accident can lead to even more severe penalties. Repeat offenders face escalating penalties. These might include longer license revocations, higher fines and increased jail time.
By recognizing the potential consequences of their actions, drivers can make informed decisions and take steps to prevent future offenses.
