Following an arrest this past weekend, a young bus driver in Northern California is likely to face serious DUI penalties. As the Washington Times reports, the bus driver was arrested for driving drunk while she had been driving 28 children home from school.
California Highway Patrol Officers responded to a call that described a school bus that was blocking lanes in unincorporated Napa County. They found that the bus driver, Jaquida Parker, 24, had tried to turn the bus around and got stuck. She later failed sobriety tests.
No one was injured in the incident, but Parker is still facing stiff penalties. She not only been charged with driving under the influence, but child endangerment, as well.
Penalty Enhancements Due to Minors
While this Napa County case presents extreme circumstances, it is worth noting having a minor in the vehicle during a DUI arrest is serious in Washington, as well. In 2012, the governor signed a bill that allows for penalty enhancements in DUI convictions when there are passengers who are 16 or younger.
In these cases, those convicted are subject to fines that are $1,000 to $5,000 more than standard DUI penalties. The court will also sentence and an additional year of jail for every minor in the car at the time of the arrest. These accused drivers must also submit to ignition interlock devices for 6 months and—if the minors were 13 or younger—they will be contacted by Child Protective Services.
If you have been charged with DUI with children in the car, then the time to speak with dedicated counsel is now. At DUIHeroes, I have committed my entire firm to the defense of clients accused of driving under the influence. I have been industry recognized for my work in this practice area and have built a reputation on winning favorable results for my clients, even as they face the most serious of charges.
Don't proceed without a proven Lynnwood DUI defense attorney by your side. Call my firm today to start exploring your defense options.