Question

Thinking about a felony (serious

crime, more than a year in prison) versus a misdemeanor crime (less serious crime,
less than a year in jail), how should the following scenario be classified and why.


Steve and Dan were riding and listening to LOUD music on the radio. Steve was the
driver and Dan was the passenger. Both men had at least one drink for dinner
FOUR hours earlier, Dan had three. An unidentified man ran the light causing Steve
to slam into his car totaling it. The unidentified man had severe bodily injuries and
was taken to the hospital. The police officer arrived to investigate the accident
and smelled alcohol on Dans breath and arrested BOTH men (Steve and Dan) and
charged them with a felony DUI (driving under the influence).

In YOUR opinion, was it fair to arrest BOTH men for DUI? Why or why not?
Should Steve be charged? Why or why not? Should the other driver be charged?
Why or why not? Could or should either be charged with a misdemeanor? Why or
why not?

Answer 1

Based on the scenario provided, it is fair to arrest Steve only for DUI. The police officer smelled alcohol on Steve's breath, indicating that he was driving under the influence of alcohol. Steve was driving the car and was responsible for the safety of the passengers and other drivers on the road. Therefore, he should be charged with DUI.

The other driver who ran the red light cannot be charged with DUI as there is no evidence to suggest that he was driving under the influence of alcohol or any other substance. However, he could potentially face charges for causing the accident.

Whether the charge should be a felony or misdemeanor depends on the specific laws in the state where the accident occurred and the severity of the injuries sustained by the other driver. However, a felony charge is appropriate since the other driver sustained severe bodily injuries .

Overall, individuals must understand the potential consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. They should make responsible decisions to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road.

Step-by-step explanation: