When does a first-time DUI become a felony in Rhode Island?

A first-time DUI in Rhode Island becomes a felony when aggravating factors elevate the charge: DUI causing serious bodily injury to another person (up to 10 years prison), DUI manslaughter when the victim dies (up to 15 years prison with 5-year mandatory minimum), or DUI with extreme BAC plus other aggravating circumstances. Most first-time DUIs without aggravators are charged as misdemeanors. The line between misdemeanor and felony first DUI is fact-specific and often turns on the severity of injury, the presence of a minor passenger, or the specific BAC tier at the time of the offense.