Penalties For DWI Property Damage In Bergen County
Most people know that if you injure someone while driving drunk in Bergen County, you face serious consequences. If you’re simply caught driving under the influence, however, you might face relatively light penalties due to the decriminalization of DUI in New Jersey. But what happens if you crash your vehicle and cause property damage? Could you face heightened consequences even if no one was hurt?
Recent Examples of DUI With Property Damage in New Jersey
If you want to get a sense of the potential consequences of DWIs with property damage, it makes sense to review some recent examples of these offenses in Bergen County. In December of 2024, a New Jersey man was arrested for crashing into a McDonald’s location while intoxicated. This incident occurred in Hackensack, and it was recorded by police bodycams.
Police arrived at the scene to find the defendant’s truck lodged in the side of the fast food restaurant. The vehicle left a considerable hole in the brick wall, and the impact triggered the airbags. Police approached the front of the vehicle and ordered the defendant to get out. They reportedly noticed the smell of alcohol emanating from him, along with bloodshot eyes and a swaying stance.
Police say that the defendant admitted to driving while intoxicated but explained in slurred words that he did not remember how the accident occurred. He then refused to submit to a chemical test, which triggered an automatic criminal charge. After his arrest, he was also charged with DWI, reckless driving, careless driving, and driving without a license.
It is worth noting that the impact reportedly injured one McDonald’s worker, and this individual complained about head and back pain after being struck by debris (possibly falling bricks). Although it was not specifically reported, this injury would likely trigger more serious DUI charges.
Can Property Damage Trigger More Severe Penalties for DUI?
The most serious consequences of DUI in New Jersey are reserved for those who cause injuries. As long as you didn’t hurt anyone, you should not face excessive penalties for driving under the influence. The only way this would increase your penalties is if someone inside the building was hurt – or if you crashed into school buildings. Note that it is still worth speaking with a defense attorney in this situation.
Can a DUI Defense Lawyer Help With Property Damage Charges?
If you are facing charges after causing property damage while driving drunk, consider a consultation with an experienced defense attorney in Bergen County. These legal professionals may be able to help you mitigate or eliminate your potential penalties. To learn more about defense strategies, contact Phillip J. Murphy, Attorney at Law today.
Sources:
msn.com/en-us/news/crime/video-shows-arrest-of-dui-teaneck-driver-who-plowed-dodge-ram-through-hackensack-mcdonald-s/ar-AA1xufmm?apiversion=v2&noservercache=1&domshim=1&renderwebcomponents=1&wcseo=1&batchservertelemetry=1&noservertelemetry=1
msn.com/en-us/news/crime/nj-man-arrested-for-dui-and-backing-into-police-car-outside-south-philly-stadiums/ar-AA1xBGgc?apiversion=v2&noservercache=1&domshim=1&renderwebcomponents=1&wcseo=1&batchservertelemetry=1&noservertelemetry=1
