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Consequences of a drunk driving conviction in Mississippi

On Behalf of | Nov 18, 2021 | Firm News

Everyone makes mistakes and sometimes a Mississippi driver makes the mistake of driving after they have been drinking. Unfortunately, law enforcement takes these crimes seriously and if a person is pulled over for drunk driving, they can face severe penalties if convicted. The following is a breakdown of the possible penalties a person may face if convicted for drunk driving.

A driver is considered legally drunk in Mississippi if their blood alcohol concentration is 0.08% or more. Commercial drivers are legally drunk when their blood alcohol concentration is 0.04% or higher and drivers under 21 are legally drunk when their blood alcohol content is 0.02% or greater.

 First time offenders are subject to:

  • Fines of up to $1,000
  • Prison for up to 48 hours.
  • Alcohol safety education program.
  • Driver’s license suspension for up to 90 days.
  • Ignition interlock device installed after 90 days suspension.

Repeat offenses

A driver who commits a second offense within five years of the first offense faces even more serious penalties which may include:

  • Up to one year in prison.
  • Fines of up to $1,500
  • Community service
  • Impoundment of all vehicles registered to offender
  • Driver’s license suspension
  • Ignition interlock device installed for one year
  • In-depth alcohol use diagnostic assessment.

A person who commits a third DUI within five years can face the following penalties:

  • Prison of up to 5 years
  • Fines of up to $5,000
  • Forfeited vehicle
  • Two years license suspension
  • Three-year ignition interlock period
  • In-depth diagnostic assessment.

Because the State of Mississippi takes drunk driving so seriously, those who are facing a drunk driving charge may want to speak with an attorney who specializes in criminal defense. An attorney can provide their client a strong defense to protect them against these charges and also protect their future.