Category Archives: DUI
How Does Virginia Define & Penalize DUI/DWI?
In Virginia, the terms driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while impaired (DWI) can be used interchangeably. Virginia law does not differentiate between DUI or DWI, defining and punishing both in a substantially similar way. To understand the boundaries of this offense, the following sections will explore important definitions and punishments under Virginia… Read More »
Fatal Crash Leads to DUI & Involuntary Manslaughter Charges for Ashburn Man
An Ashburn man faces criminal charges for driving under the influence (DUI) and involuntary manslaughter after causing a fatal crash, according to an article by the Loudoun Times-Mirror. The authorities issued formal charges this December after completing an investigation into the November 16th accident. At approximately 2 a.m. on that date, the Ashburn man… Read More »
Virginia Man Faces Criminal Charges for Repeat DUI & Test Refusal
Loudoun County Sheriff’s deputies arrested a Virginia man for driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol and refusing to submit to a DUI test on July 27th, according to an article by the Loudoun Times-Mirror. At approximately 11:30 p.m. that night, a local business called in a report about an alleged drunk driver near… Read More »
Virginia’s Zero Tolerance Law for Underage Drivers
A person must be at least 21 years old to purchase or consume alcohol in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Accordingly, Virginia has a zero tolerance law for any person under the age of 21 who drives under the influence (DUI) of alcohol. The terms of the zero tolerance law are much more stringent than… Read More »
Driving a Commercial Vehicle While Intoxicated in Virginia
The Commonwealth of Virginia prohibits any person from driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs on public roadways. These DUI laws apply equally to personal and commercial vehicles. When a truck driver violates these requirements, commercial DUI is punishable separately under Virginia law. Upon conviction, the commercial driver can face criminal fines… Read More »
What are the Virginia Requirements for Ignition Interlock Systems?
Upon conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs, Virginia law requires many offenders to use an ignition interlock device. These devices are installed on a DUI offender’s motor vehicle, ensuring the safe and sober operation of the vehicle in question. To understand the purpose of and requirements for ignition interlock… Read More »
Is it a Crime to Refuse a DUI Test in Virginia?
Across the Commonwealth of Virginia, law enforcement officers have the authority to execute traffic stops for violations ranging from speeding to driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs. Concerning DUI offenses, specifically, law enforcement officers are responsible for administering official tests to determine whether a driver is intoxicated. When a law enforcement… Read More »
Suspected DUI Kills One Person & Maims Another in Virginia
A Virginia woman faces criminal charges for driving under the influence (DUI) and involuntary manslaughter after allegedly causing a fatal car crash, according to an article by WAVY. This auto accident occurred in Chesapeake on Interstate 264 at approximately 3 a.m. on June 1st. That is when the Virginia woman apparently lost control of… Read More »
Virginia Judge Declares Portsmouth Police Officer Not Guilty of DUI
Despite registering a chemical test well above the legal limit for alcohol, a Portsmouth police officer received a not guilty verdict for driving under the influence (DUI), according to an article by WAVY. This incident dates back to September 16th. On that day, the police officer was off-duty and driving down Victory Boulevard in… Read More »
Virginia Penalties for Repeat DUI Offenders
Whenever a person drives under the influence (DUI) in Virginia or elsewhere, that drunk driver poses a severe risk to the health and safety of others. Recognizing this reality, Virginia imposes strict penalties for DUI offenses. Moreover, these penalties escalate sharply for any person who commits multiple DUI crimes. Jail Time & Fines As… Read More »