Impact Carolina Services, Inc
Provider at a Glance
Available programs:
- DWI Assessment
- Out of State Reviews
- Short & Longer-Term Treatment
Program languages include:
- English
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Driving While Impaired in North Carolina
In North Carolina, Driving While Impaired (DWI) encompasses a range of offenses categorized into five levels of misdemeanor severity, with Level I being the most serious and Level V the least. Penalties increase with the severity of the offense, ranging from fines of up to $200 and a minimum jail sentence of 24 hours for Level V to fines of up to $4,000 and a mandatory minimum of 30 days in jail for Level I. Levels I and II typically apply to repeat offenders, those with revoked licenses, or individuals involved in incidents causing harm.
Habitual offenders, defined as those with three or more DWI convictions within seven years, face felony charges that mandate a minimum one-year active jail term and completion of a substance abuse program. Additionally, vehicles can be seized from repeat offenders, with forfeiture occurring upon conviction.
The law is particularly stringent regarding commercial drivers, who face immediate disqualification from operating vehicles for alcohol-related offenses, as well as zero tolerance for school bus drivers and those operating childcare vehicles. Underage drivers are subject to strict penalties, including automatic license revocation for any detectable alcohol.
Moreover, the state has enhanced its laws to address drug-related impairments and mandates chemical testing when a driver is suspected of being impaired by substances other than alcohol. Refusing a test results in immediate revocation of driving privileges. North Carolina's commitment to reducing impaired driving is reflected in these comprehensive measures aimed at improving road safety and protecting the community.