Does a Firearm in the Vehicle Affect a Connecticut DUI?

 Posted on December 24, 2024 in Driving Under the Influence

A New London man was recently arrested for driving under the influence on I-95 in Old Saybrook. Police noticed a black sedan that consistently failed to maintain its lane. When the driver was pulled over, the state trooper noticed signs of impairment in the driver and noted the registration was expired.

The man failed to pass field sobriety tests, and a loaded 9mm handgun was found on his person. The 42-year-old was charged with DUI, failure to maintain proper lane, improper storage of a firearm in a motor vehicle, and illegal carry of a firearm while under the influence. He was released on a $1,500 bond and is scheduled to appear in court.

DUI charges on their own are serious in Connecticut, and the addition of weapons charges can result in significant penalties. If you have been charged with DUI and gun charges, you need immediate legal assistance. A Stamford, CT DUI lawyer can comprehensively assess your charges and determine the best way to defend the charges.

What Are the Penalties for DUI in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, a person is considered under the influence if his or her ability to drive is affected by alcohol or drugs to an "appreciable" degree. Adult drivers over the age of 21 are considered impaired at a BAC of 0.08 percent or higher. Those operating a commercial motor vehicle are considered impaired at 0.04 percent. A person under the age of 21 is considered impaired at 0.02 percent or more. DUI penalties are as follows:

First DUI Conviction

For a first-time DUI conviction, the offender faces up to six months in jail. The sentence has a mandatory minimum jail sentence of two days or a sentence of a suspended jail sentence with 100 hours of community service, and probation could be ordered.  The offender’s license could be suspended for 45 days. After the period of suspension, the offender must install an ignition interlock device in all vehicles driven at his or her own expense. Fines from $500 to $1,000 are also possible.  

Second DUI Conviction

A person convicted of a second DUI can spend up to two years in jail. There is a mandatory minimum sentence of 120 consecutive days, along with 100 hours of community service and probation. The offender will have his or her driver’s license suspended for a period of 45 days. After that time is up, the offender will be required to have an interlock ignition device installed in any vehicle he or she drives for a period of three years. Fines can range from $1,000 to $4,000.   

Penalties for a Third or Subsequent DUI

A person facing a third or subsequent DUI faces up to three years in jail. There is a mandatory minimum sentence of one year in jail, along with 100 hours of community service and probation. The offender can face a lifetime license revocation, although could be eligible for a driver’s license after two years and will be required to have an ignition interlock device for life. Fines for a third or subsequent DUI can range from $2,000 to $8,000.  

Do Weapons Charges Increase DUI Penalties?

While weapons charges do not necessarily increase DUI penalties, they can have even more serious penalties. Carrying a loaded firearm while under the influence is a misdemeanor with penalties of up to six months in jail and $1,000 in fines. Improper storage of a handgun in a motor vehicle can be a felony offense, punishable by up to five years in jail and a fine as large as $5,000, although if this is a first offense, there could be a diversionary program available so the offender can avoid jail.  

Contact a Fairfield County, CT DUI Lawyer

If you have been charged with DUI and/or weapons charges in Connecticut, it is important that you have experienced legal representation. Having a Stamford, CT DUI attorney from Law Offices of Daniel P. Weiner ensures you will receive the most vigorous, comprehensive defense available. The charges or penalties could potentially be reduced to minimize the long-term effects. Call 203-348-5846 today to schedule your free consultation.