What are the criminal penalties for drunk driving?

In South Carolina, a person who is convicted of drunk driving may face criminal penalties which can include costly fines, jail time, classes or programs, and a driver’s license suspension or revocation. The specific penalties vary based on the severity of the crime and if the person has any prior offenses. For instance, if a person is arrested for a first-time offense of driving under the influence (DUI) with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of more than 0.08, they may face a fine of up to $400, three days of jail time, and a six-month revocation of their driver’s license. If a person is convicted of a DUI with a BAC of more than 0.15, they may face a fine between $2,100 and $5,100, up to 30 days of jail time, and the revocation of their driver’s license for one year. Additionally, persons convicted of DUI must attend alcohol and drug safety education classes. If a person has any prior DUI convictions, the penalties may be increased. For instance, a person with one prior DUI conviction who is arrested for a second-time offense of driving with a BAC of more than 0.08 may face an increased fine of up to $2,100, a minimum of 30 days in jail, suspension of their driver’s license for two years, and attendance at an alcohol and drug safety education class. Overall, South Carolina enforces harsh criminal penalties for those convicted of drunk driving. It is important that all drivers exercise caution and never get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol.

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What are the criminal penalties for drunk driving?

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