Many states are cracking down on the deadly crime of impaired driving, and North Carolina is one of the strictest. The short answer to the above question is: Yes, you can be charged with a felony for DWI, but typically this level is only reserved for repeat offenders. If you do make the mistake of driving while impaired more than once, then there are a number of significant consequences you can face, some of which are immediate.
Seizure of your vehicle
The North Carolina Department of Public Safety states that if you are caught driving under the influence while your license is suspended for a prior DWI, a police officer may decide to seize your vehicle at the time of your arrest.
If you are able to prove your innocence in court, it is possible to get your vehicle back. However, if you are convicted of a DWI while your vehicle is in police custody, your vehicle may be forfeited and sold.
Other felony DWI penalties
Losing your car is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to felony DWI punishments. A felony DWI is given to drivers who have four prior DWI convictions. If convicted, you can expect to go through a substance abuse treatment program.
Additionally, you will most likely be sentenced to a minimum period of one year in jail. It is possible that your jail time will be more than one year, depending on the circumstances of the charges.
This article is meant to give you information and is not a form of legal advice.
