What are the criminal penalties for drunk driving?

In Oregon, drunk driving is a criminal offense and carries severe criminal penalties. A person found guilty of operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $6,250, and/or imprisonment for up to one year. If the defendant has two or more prior convictions for this offense, it is considered a felony and carries a greater penalty. In addition, the court may require a period of probation and complete a DUI program as part of the sentence. The court may also suspend your driver’s license for a period of up to one year, and the court may order installation of an Ignition Interlock Device for up to two years. The Ignition Interlock Device requires you to provide a breath sample before the vehicle will start. If a drunk driving accident results in serious physical injury or death, the defendant can be charged with a Class C felony, punishable by a fine of up to $125,000 or imprisonment for up to five years, or both. The court may also require the defendant to complete a court-ordered alcohol treatment program.

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