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DUI   1/23/2025

Understanding DUI Penalties in Tennessee

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Tennessee, carrying significant legal consequences that escalate with repeated violations. It’s crucial for residents, especially in Knoxville and surrounding counties, to be aware of these penalties to make informed decisions and understand the ramifications of impaired driving.

Implied Consent Law

Tennessee’s Implied Consent Law mandates that drivers suspected of DUI must submit to blood alcohol concentration (BAC) testing. Refusal to comply results in automatic license revocation:

  • First Offense: 1-year license revocation.
  • Second Offense: 2-year license revocation.
  • Refusal Involving Injury: 2-year revocation.
  • Refusal Involving Death: 5-year revocation.

First-Time DUI Offender

A first DUI offense in Tennessee includes:

  • Incarceration: 48 hours to 11 months and 29 days; a BAC of 0.20% or higher requires a minimum of 7 consecutive days in jail.
  • Fines: $350 to $1,500.
  • License Revocation: 1 year, with the possibility of obtaining a restricted license.
  • Mandatory Alcohol and Drug Treatment: Participation as ordered by the court.
  • Restitution: Payment to victims suffering injury or loss.
  • Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Installation at the offender’s expense; costs may exceed $1,000 for the first year.
  • Additional Costs: Including towing, bail, attorney fees, high-risk insurance, court costs, and reinstatement fees, potentially totaling around $4,900.

Second-Time DUI Offender

Penalties for a second DUI offense include:

  • Incarceration: 45 days to 11 months and 29 days.
  • Fines: $600 to $3,500.
  • License Revocation: 2 years, with a restricted license available.
  • Vehicle Seizure/Forfeiture: Subject to state laws.
  • Mandatory Alcohol and Drug Treatment: As ordered by the court.
  • Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Installation at the offender’s expense.
  • Restitution: Payment to victims suffering injury or loss.

Third-Time DUI Offender

A third DUI offense results in:

  • Incarceration: 120 days to 11 months and 29 days.
  • Fines: $1,100 to $10,000.
  • License Revocation: 6 years, with a restricted license available.
  • Vehicle Seizure/Forfeiture: Subject to state laws.
  • Mandatory Alcohol and Drug Treatment: As ordered by the court.
  • Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Installation at the offender’s expense.

Additional Considerations

  • Enhanced Penalties for High BAC Levels: Effective July 1, 2024, Tennessee law imposes harsher penalties for drivers with a BAC of 0.15% or higher, including a minimum of 7 consecutive days in jail. 
  • Child Endangerment: Driving under the influence with a child under 18 in the vehicle can lead to additional charges, including child endangerment, resulting in increased fines and incarceration periods.
  • Vehicular Assault and Homicide: Causing injury or death while driving under the influence leads to severe felony charges, with extended prison sentences and substantial fines.

Conclusion

Understanding Tennessee’s DUI laws is essential for all drivers. The state enforces strict penalties to deter impaired driving and protect public safety. If facing DUI charges, it’s imperative to seek legal counsel to navigate the complexities of the legal system and mitigate potential consequences.

The Woodard Law Firm specializes in DUI defense and serves clients in Knoxville and nearby counties such as Sevier, Loudon, and Anderson. Contact us today for a free consultation!

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