Drunk driving in Nevada is a serious offense that has lifelong consequences. According to the Nevada Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), there were 553 DUI arrests in the state in 2021. Not only does drunk driving impact the individual convicted of the act, but it can lead to devastating consequences for innocent bystanders like the wrongful death of a loved one.
Here, the Nevada personal injury attorneys at Lerner and Rowe explain the consequences of drunk driving in Nevada and how we can help after suffering from an injury or accident caused by a drunk driver.
Consequences of Drunk Driving in Nevada
Depending on the offense and prior offenses, those convicted of drunk driving in Nevada will face multiple legal consequences. Nevada boasts some of the harshest drunk driving penalties in the country. Non-commercial drivers caught driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 or more can expect an arrest and DUI charges. The limit for commercial drivers is 0.04. Convicted drivers can face the loss of driver’s license and can expect to pay thousands of dollars in fines and other costs.
Additionally, each offense requires the installation of a breath interlock device in the convicted individual’s vehicle. How long the device must remain in a vehicle will depend on the severity of charges. Also, installation costs of the device are usually around $150 with a monthly maintenance fee set at about $100 to be paid to the state of Nevada.
Drunk drivers in Nevada can expect to face different consequences depending on the number of prior convictions they have.
First DUI Conviction
- Jail time for 2 days up to 6 months, or up to 96 hours of community service.
- Fines between $400 to $1,000, plus court costs.
- Driver’s license may be suspended for 185 days, plus a $35 civil penalty fee.
- The state may also require attendance at a drunk driving school – which includes an additional out-of-pocket expenses for the person convicted.
- Those with a BAC higher than 0.18 at the time of their arrest are required to participate in a mandatory alcohol treatment program.
Second DUI Conviction
- Individuals facing a second DUI conviction within a 7-year period must spend 10 days to 6 months in jail or enter a residential treatment program.
- Loss of driving privileges for one year and a $35 civil penalty.
- A fine ranging from $750 to $1,000.
- Attendance at a MADD Victim Impact Panel to include a $60 registration fee.
- Court ordered alcohol dependency evaluation, which costs approximately $100 plus additional costs to attend a mandatory attendance at a long-term DUI school.
Third DUI Conviction
- Those found guilty of a third-offense DUI conviction in Nevada within seven years face a Class B felony charge.
- Possible prison sentence ranging from one to six years.
- Driver’s license suspension for three years.
- Fines between $2,000 and $5,000.
- Required to attend an alcohol treatment program for a minimum of three years.
If any serious injuries occur due to a car accident caused by a drunk driver, this can be used to establish negligence in a civil trial for any injuries to another party. Those convicted might also face the possibility of having to pay punitive damages to victims. Besides the legal consequences of a drunk driving conviction, there are social and personal consequences of drunk driving, including:
- Increased car insurance rates: a DUI conviction can also result in higher car insurance rates, making it more expensive to drive. In some cases, certain insurance providers might refuse to cover anyone with a DUI on their record.
- Limited employment opportunities: some employers and certain industries will not hire individuals with a DUI conviction.
- Stigma: drunk driving is widely viewed as a socially unacceptable behavior. Those who are convicted of drunk driving may face social stigma, which can affect their personal and professional relationships.
- Psychological effects: drunk drivers may experience guilt, shame, and remorse for their actions. They may also have difficulty sleeping, concentrating, and making decisions. Drunk driving can also lead to depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Drain on finances: the cost of legal fees, fines, and increased insurance premiums can add up quickly and become a financial burden for the driver and their family.
- Injuries: along with causing injuries to others either in the car with the driver or other drivers on the road, the drunk driver themselves can also suffer from catastrophic injuries caused by their own actions.
Ways to Prevent Drunk Driving in Nevada
The only way to prevent drunk driving? Don’t do it! It is important to remember that preventing drunk driving is everyone’s responsibility, and taking proactive measures can help keep our roads safe and prevent accidents. A few easy things you can do to help prevent drunk driving include:
- Always have a designated driver.
- Use public transportation, a taxi, or a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, if you can’t find a designated driver.
- Be a responsible host if you’re hosting a party or event. Provide non-alcoholic drinks and food, and make sure your guests have a designated driver.
- If you suspect that someone is about to drive under the influence of alcohol, intervene and try to persuade them not to drive. Offer to call a taxi or rideshare service, or find another way for them to get home safely. Sometimes, a little intervention can go a long way in preventing a tragedy.
- Encourage people to plan ahead and make responsible choices. Provide resources such as phone numbers for taxi and rideshare services.
By taking proactive measures, we can help reduce the number of drunk driving accidents and keep our roads safe for everyone. Remember, it only takes one person to make a difference, and by doing your part, you can help prevent a tragedy.
Injured By a Drunk Driver?
If you or a loved one have been injured by a drunk driver in Nevada, you deserve justice for the negligent actions of another person. Our team of Las Vegas injury attorneys is dedicated to helping clients receive the compensation they deserve following a devastating injury accident with a drunk driver. Our experienced lawyers have a proven record for winning settlements for clients and for providing compassionate support during a difficult time.
To get started on your free, no obligation case consultation contact our office at 702-877-1500. You can aso chat with a representative using our LiveChat feature, or submit a free case evaluation.