What is the difference between a drug DUI and an alcohol DUI?

DUI, or Driving Under the Influence, is a criminal offense that occurs when a driver operates a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol. In Pennsylvania, both alcohol DUI and drug DUI are illegal. The main difference between an alcohol DUI and a drug DUI is the type of substance that has impaired the driver. Alcohol DUI occurs when a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) exceeds the legal limit of .08%. A drug DUI occurs when a driver operates a vehicle while impaired by a controlled substance, such as marijuana or prescription drugs. In Pennsylvania, the penalties for a drug DUI are the same as for an alcohol DUI. Both types of DUIs carry a maximum of 6 months of imprisonment and $1,500 in fines. Penalties are also assessed for driving with a suspended license, which could include up to 5 years of imprisonment and a $10,000 fine. In Pennsylvania, DUIs, regardless of the type, are taken seriously and can carry extremely severe consequences; for this reason, it is important to be aware of the dangers of driving while impaired. If you suspect someone is driving under the influence, it is important that you contact the authorities immediately in order to keep our roads safe.

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