Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Nebraska, and the penalties for a conviction can be severe. The penalties for a DUI conviction vary depending on the number of prior offenses and the BAC level of the current offense.
First Offense DUI
The penalties for a first offense DUI in Nebraska include:
• Up to 60 days in jail
• A $500 fine
• A 6-month license revocation
• Alcohol assessment and treatment
• Alcohol monitoring device (IID)
If the driver’s BAC level was 0.15 or higher, the potential license revocation is for up to 1 year.
Second Offense DUI
The penalties for a second offense DUI in Nebraska include:
• Up to 90 days in jail
• A $1,000 fine
• An 18-month license revocation
• Alcohol assessment and treatment
• Alcohol monitoring device (IID)
Third Offense DUI
The penalties for a third offense DUI in Nebraska include:
• Up to 1 year in jail
• A $1,000 fine
• A 15-year license revocation
• Alcohol assessment and treatment
• Alcohol monitoring device (IID)
Fourth or Subsequent Offense DUI
A fourth or subsequent DUI conviction within 15 years is a class IIIA felony in Nebraska. The penalties for a fourth DUI conviction include:
• 180 days to 3 years in jail
• Up to $10,000 in fines
• A 15-year license revocation
• Alcohol assessment and treatment
• Alcohol monitoring device (IID)
Other Penalties for DUI Convictions in Nebraska
In addition to the above penalties, DUI offenders in Nebraska may also be required to pay court costs, perform community service, and attend victim impact panels. They may also be ordered to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle. An IID is a device that measures the driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) before they can start their car.
DUI Defense Options
If you have been charged with a DUI in Nebraska, you have a number of defense options available to you. These options may include:
• Arguing that the arresting officer did not have probable cause to stop you
• Arguing that the arresting officer did not have the proper equipment to administer a breathalyzer test
• Arguing that the breathalyzer test was not properly calibrated
• Arguing that you were not actually under the influence of alcohol
If you have been charged with a DUI in Nebraska, it is important to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options and can represent you in court.
DUI Prevention
The best way to avoid the penalties of a DUI conviction is to never drive under the influence of alcohol. If you are planning to drink alcohol, it is important to have a designated driver or to take public transportation. If you must drive, it is important to know your limits and to never drink and drive.
DUI laws in Nebraska are strict, and the penalties for a conviction can be severe. If you have been charged with a DUI, it is important to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options and can represent you in court.