A Michigan woman was arrested after she fell asleep behind the wheel with her 7- and 10-year-old children in the car. The woman was involved in a road rage incident, and then fell asleep behind the wheel. While she was asleep, the vehicle ran into a curb. The woman woke up long enough for her to park the vehicle. The 10-year-old child called 911 when she was unable to wake her mother up. Police believe the woman was Driving under the Influence and passed out from intoxication.
Driving under the Influence is an extremely serious offense in Nevada, and it is made more serious if there are children in the car at the time. A first-time DUI is a misdemeanor and is punishable by up to six (6) months in jail, a $1,000.00 fine, DUI School, Victim Impact Panel and/or community service. A DUI conviction may also result in the loss of his/her driver's license, and may negatively impact educational and employment opportunities.
In contrast, a person Driving under the Influence with children in the vehicle are likely to be charged with Child Endangerment, in addition to DUI. Child Endangerment is a gross-misdemeanor offense, and is punishable by up to a year in prison and a $2,000.00 fine. In addition, Child Endangerment charges may result in the children being removed from the driver/parent's care by Child Protective Services. It can also have a substantial impact on child custody matters.
If you or someone you know is charged with Driving under the Influence and/or Child Endangerment, it is imperative that you contact a Las Vegas Criminal Defense Lawyer right away. A Las Vegas Criminal Defense Lawyer can assist by analyzing the facts of your case, identifying appropriate defenses and developing the most effective legal strategy possible to protect your legal rights.