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DUI with Injury

Definition of DUI with Injury

A distinct category of DUI cases in California is Drunk Driving Causing Injury, which is prosecuted under California Vehicle Code section 23153. Unlike a standard DUI, a DUI with injury is considered a more serious offense, carrying harsher penalties. Even for a first-time misdemeanor DUI with injury, mandatory jail time is required, making the consequences significantly more severe than those for a non-injury DUI.  Contact Los Angeles DUI attorney now to help you avoid jail time.

Penalties for DUI Causing Injury (CVC 23153)

A conviction for Drunk Driving Causing Injury under California Vehicle Code section 23153 carries significant penalties, which vary based on whether the offense is charged as a misdemeanor or felony, and whether the court grants probation.

Misdemeanor DUI with Injury (CVC 23153)

✅ With Probation:

• Mandatory 5 days to 1 year in county jail
• Supervised probation with compliance requirements

✅ Without Probation:

• Mandatory 90 days to 1 year in county jail

Felony DUI with Injury (CVC 23153)

When a DUI results in serious injuries, the prosecution may file felony charges, significantly increasing the penalties.

✅ With Probation:

• Felony probation, which includes supervision by the probation department
• The probation department monitors compliance and can arrest the defendant for violations

✅ Without Probation:

• State prison sentence of up to 3 years under CVC 23554
• Enhanced penalties if victims suffer great bodily injury

Driver’s License Consequences

A DUI with injury also carries harsher driver’s license penalties:

• First-offense DUI with injury: 1-year license revocation
• Standard first-offense DUI (without injury): 6-month suspension

Because of the severe penalties and long-term consequences of a DUI causing injury, it is crucial to have an experienced Los Angeles DUI attorney. Our office has successfully defended numerous Los Angeles DUI cases, including negotiating charge reductions and alternative sentencing options. Contact Los Angeles DUI Attorney today for a consultation.

Defense Strategies for DUI with Injury (CVC 23153)

If you have been arrested for Drunk Driving Causing Injury, you should not wait until your court date to seek legal representation. Early intervention by an experienced Los Angeles DUI defense attorney is crucial for preparing a strong defense strategy and ensuring you present yourself in the most favorable light before the court.

Mandatory Penalties for a DUI with Injury Conviction

If convicted under CVC 23153, additional penalties apply, including:

• Mandatory alcohol education programs
  • First offense: Completion of a standard DUI program
  • Second offense: 18-month alcohol program required before driver’s license reinstatement
• Fines ranging from $390 to $1,000 plus significant penalty assessments, which often increase the total fine amount severalfold

Special Allegations: Great Bodily Injury (PC 12022.7)

In some cases, prosecutors may add special allegations under Penal Code 12022.7, also known as the “Great Bodily Injury” enhancement. If proven, this enhancement:

• Qualifies the offense as a violent felony under California’s Three-Strikes Law
• Adds 3 years to the defendant’s sentence
• Eliminates eligibility for 1/2 time credit under PC 4019, meaning the defendant must serve a larger portion of their sentence

Why You Need an Experienced Los Angeles DUI Attorney

A DUI with injury case carries serious, long-term consequences, including potential felony charges, extensive jail time, and lifelong criminal record implications. Los Angeles DUI Attorney has successfully defended numerous DUI injury cases, securing charge reductions, dismissals, and alternative sentencing options.

Los Angeles DUI Attorney provides high-quality legal representation at affordable rates, ensuring you receive the best possible defense against these serious charges. Call now to discuss your case.

(818) 921 7744   Many serious Los Angeles drunk driving cases with injuries can be negotiated down to misdemeanors, non-injury DUI, or even dismissals of DUI charges. Call anytime to talk directly to Los Angeles DUI Lawyer.