Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is a major traffic violation. It can pose road safety threats to drivers, passengers, motorists and pedestrians. Moreover, a severe DUI accident may cause serious injuries and deaths.
In Montana, a first DUI violation warrants a fine of $600 to $1,000 and an imprisonment of 24 hours to six months. Other penalties for those convicted are the 90-day suspension of their driver’s license and the completion of a chemical dependency education course.
Penalties for a second offense
When a driver gets a conviction for their second violation, their fine is $1,200 to $2,000, and their prison sentence is seven days to one year. Additionally, the law imposes a six-month license suspension and a requirement to receive chemical dependency treatment.
Punishments for a third DUI
Furthermore, a conviction for a third DUI offense yields a fine of $2,500 to $5,000 and an imprisonment of 30 days to one year. The law mandates a one-year license suspension plus the need to go through treatment for chemical dependency.
Harsher penalties based on a passenger’s age
Meanwhile, there are greater fines and longer prison terms if the driver operated the vehicle while under the influence with at least one passenger aged below 16. For a first DUI, the fine is $1,200 to $2,000 and the imprisonment is 48 hours to one year.
The presence of an underage passenger increases the fine for a second violation to $2,400 to $4,000, while the prison sentence jumps up to 14 days to one year. Finally, a third offense warrants a fine worth $5,000 to $10,000 and a 60-day to one-year imprisonment.
Navigating a DUI charge
Facing a DUI charge may lead you to worry about getting a criminal record. However, a charge is not yet a conviction. Seeking legal counsel may help you craft a solid defense to challenge the evidence and secure your driving privileges.
