DUI is a serious criminal offense in Virginia that is punished harshly and can result in long-term consequences if you are convicted. However, you could face additional DUI Maiming charges if you cause a person to suffer serious bodily injuries while driving when intoxicated due to alcohol or drug consumption.
What Is the Offense of DUI Maiming?
DUI Maiming is a felony offense in Virginia. To be charged with this crime, a person must be driving while intoxicated in a manner that is so gross, wanton, and culpable that it shows a reckless disregard for human life and must unintentionally cause bodily injury resulting in permanent and significant impairment.
All elements of the crime must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. The prosecutor must prove the following:
- You drove while intoxicated.
- Your driving while intoxicated was in a manner that was so wanton, willful, and culpable as to show a reckless disregard for a person’s life.
- You unintentionally caused an individual’s serious bodily injury.
- The bodily injury that you caused resulted in a permanent and significant impairment.
Not all injuries will be considered a permanent and significant impairment. Some that will be considered permanent and significant impairment include:
- Loss of a limb.
- Permanent scarring that is large and visible.
- Loss of a pregnancy or fertility.
- Deformities on the face.
- Damage to or loss of an organ.
- Brain damage that causes a permanent mental impairment.
Penalties You Could Face If Convicted of DUI Maiming
DUI Maiming is a Class 6 felony. You could face these punishments and other consequences if convicted:
- One to five years in prison.
- Fine of up to $2,500.
- Mandatory driver’s license suspension.
- Completion of an alcohol or substance abuse program.
- Installation of an ignition interlock system if a restricted license is granted.
- Permanent criminal record.
How the Experienced Attorneys at Tavss Fletcher Can Help
If you have been charged with DUI Maiming, our experienced DUI lawyers can help you develop a strong defense strategy that can result in the charges being dismissed or reduced to a less serious offense. This may be true even if you are guilty of the charges you are facing. To learn more about your legal options and what we can do to assist you, fill out our convenient online form to schedule a free case evaluation today.
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