When there is an auto accident with injuries in New Jersey, law enforcement will investigate to determine if alcohol or drugs were involved. This is especially true in a rear-end collision. While it is important to that drivers understand the need to drive sober – especially during the holiday season – just because there was an arrest does not mean that the accused drunk driver is guilty. Because there are such severe consequences for a DWI or DUI, having legal assistance is imperative from the start.
Man arrested for DWI after crash faces has charges enhanced
A 49-year-old man who rear-ended a 44-year-old woman and sent her to the hospital has had the original DWI charges he faced enhanced. The increase of the severity of the allegations came about after his blood test and the law enforcement investigation. The accident happened in the evening at about 7 p.m. He was driving a 2010 Honda CRV and heading west when he crashed into the back of a 2003 Hyundai Elantra. The impact sent both vehicles into the woods.
When the man was tested to see if he had any substances in his system, he was found to have a .129 blood-alcohol concentration. He was initially charged with assault by auto. Once the results of the blood test were revealed, aggravated assault was added to his case as the test discovered methadone. He is also charged with DWI, tailgating, reckless driving, not producing a driver’s license and not having a valid registration.
Severe penalties can accompany a DWI or DUI conviction
People who are accused of DWI or DUI might never have been in trouble with the law before and do not know what to expect. This can be intimidating and downright frightening. If another person was injured in an alleged DWI accident, it only adds to the concern. While these charges are serious, it is important to understand that there may be many avenues of defense available to address the case.
It is possible that the person has an issue that could be handled with treatment in lieu of punishment. There may have been issues with the testing procedure or the investigation that could help with the defense to reduce the charges or get an acquittal. Understanding the potential consequences is key. This may include jail, fines, lost driving privileges, raised insurance rates and more. Calling a firm with experience in DWI/DUI defense can begin the process of crafting a defense to seek a positive outcome.