On February 23rd, 2019, the House of Delegates voted to approve tougher penalties for DUIs that involve injuries in Virginia. The Senate had previously approved the bill unanimously by a vote of 40-0.
On March 18th, Governor Northam signed the bill. This means that effectively July 1, 2019 the law change amends VA Code §18.2-51.4 and Code §18.2-51.5 applying the tougher penalities to driving an automobile or watercraft while intoxicated.
Causing serious bodily injury during a DUI is currently a Class 6 Felony. A Class 6 Felony is punishable by a term of imprisonment of not less than one year nor more than five years, or in the discretion of the jury or the court trying the case without a jury, confinement in jail for not more than 12 months and a fine of not more than $2,500, either or both.
However, causing permanent and significant damage during a DUI as of July 1st will be upgraded to a Class 4 Felony. A Class 4 Felony is punishable by a term of imprisonment of not less than two years nor more than 10 years and, a fine of not more than $100,000.
If you have questions about a DUI charge in Richmond, Henrico, Chesterfield, or the surrounding counties, please contact the attorneys of Winslow & McCurry, PLLC at (804)423-1382 or email us at info@wmmlegal.com. We can help.
