Eric Skager Law helps drivers in High Point and the surrounding area when they are stopped for driving while impaired (DWI). Of all the possible causes behind car accidents in North Carolina, driving under the influence remains one of the most serious. The numbers don’t lie—DWI accidents continue to claim hundreds of lives and cause thousands of injuries every year. But even with something this serious, you have rights. Our team can explain these options and help you through the process. Set up a one-on-one consultation today.
How Many DWI Convictions Were There in North Carolina in 2024?
The most recent data on DWI arrests in North Carolina are for the fiscal year 2024, and they come from the North Carolina Sentencing and Policy Advisory Committee (NCSPAC). And any understanding of the issue starts with the total number of convictions there were for DWI in that time frame. According to the data, North Carolina saw:
- 24,694 convictions in total.
Now, it’s important to remember that DWI convictions in North Carolina are separated into five tiers, with Level I being the most serious and Level V being the least serious. So, of the total number of convictions, here’s how they were distributed:
- Level V – 14,409
- Level IV – 3,077
- Level III – 1,330
- Level II – 3,055
- Level I – 2,228
- Aggravated Level I – 595
With all of these convictions, it’s easy to look at a DWI/DUI as a bad decision. But the reality is that the details matter–and that can shed some light on who exactly is more likely to offend in North Carolina.
Who is More Likely To Be Charged With a DWI in North Carolina?
One of the most interesting facets of DWI convictions in North Carolina is who they happen to. While any driver (regardless of demographic) is going to be arrested and convicted if they’re caught driving under the influence, the data showed that:
- 74% of DWI convictions were male
- 26% of DWI convictions were female
What this data shows is that, by and large, DWI convictions in North Carolina are more likely to involve a male driver. But there’s nothing about the law that favors female drivers, it’s just how the numbers shake out. Which begs the question, what are some other determining factors for a DWI conviction?
What Age Groups Had the Most DWI Convictions in 2024?
One of the clearest determining factors for DWI convictions in North Carolina is the age of the person that gets arrested. That’s not all that surprising when you think about it: younger drivers are much more likely to take the risk of drinking and driving, while other middle-aged drivers have probably rationalized their ability to drive while impaired.
But the actual data bores out a clearer picture. Here’s how the average ages of those convicted in 2024 shook out:
- Level V – 36 years old
- Level IV – 38 years old
- Level III – 39 years old
- Level II – 38 years old
- Level I – 37 years old
- Aggravated Level I – 38 years old
Age helps us see who is most often convicted of DWI in North Carolina, but it’s just one piece of the picture. Knowing the demographics shows patterns and risk factors, but every conviction has real-world consequences.
How Long is the Average Sentence for a DWI Conviction in North Carolina?
Probably the most pressing issue that comes up with a DWI conviction is the penalties that come along with it. Outside of losing your license or fines, the biggest penalty is jail time. Under the law, judges have discretion to impose minimum and maximum sentence lengths based on the level of conviction, but the data showed that they fell within the following lengths on average:
- Level V – 1 month
- Level IV – 2 months
- Level III – 4 months
- Level II – 6 months
- Level I – 13 months
- Aggravated Level I – 21 months
Obviously, the minimum sentence term goes up with the level of offense–which means longer sentences for the more serious offenders. That’s why the judge’s discretion is important, especially when it comes to jail time and other punishments. But remember, you still have a right to a defense, and that’s where my firm can step in and help you.
Get Help With a North Carolina DWI Conviction From Eric Skager Law
Driving while impaired is a serious problem in North Carolina, and the statistics show just how common it is. Every year, thousands of drivers are charged with DWI, and these cases can lead to jail time, fines, and suspended licenses—all of which can affect your job, your daily routine, and your future. When you’re in this situation, my firm, Eric Skager Law, can help you by:
- Explaining your rights and what your options are
- Carefully looking at evidence.
- Protecting your license and finances.
- Negotiating a fair outcome for everyone involved.
With the right support, a DWI case won’t seem so overwhelming. To get started, reach out today to set up a confidential, one-on-one consultation.