Jail time for a Rhode Island DUI varies by offense level and BAC. A first-offense DUI carries up to 1 year in jail, but most first offenders avoid jail. A second offense within 10 years carries 10 days to 1 year (6 months to 1 year at a BAC of 0.15 or higher), and the mandatory minimum cannot be suspended. A third or subsequent offense within 10 years is a felony with 1 to 3 years in prison, or 3 to 5 years at a BAC of 0.15 or higher. DUI with serious bodily injury carries up to 10 years in prison. DUI manslaughter carries up to 15 years with a 5-year mandatory minimum. Aggravating factors (minor in vehicle, accident, BAC over 0.20) increase jail exposure across all offense levels.
