Having a DUI conviction on one’s record can negatively impact one’s ability to drive a car or obtain desired employment. However, multiple drunk driving convictions can end in a prison sentence and significant fines. One man who was recently arrested in Tennessee, who now faces his fifth DUI charge, is likely awaiting his court date with hopes for a strong defense.

The out-of-state driver is alleged to have slammed into the rear of another vehicle that was stopped at an intersection. The collision was purportedly so forceful that the first car burst into flames. One passenger in the charged driver’s vehicle required the services of emergency crews to be safely rescued.

Local law enforcement authorities stated that the man is being charged with his fifth drunk driving offense and two counts each of aggravated assault and felony reckless endangerment. He has also been charged with possession of a firearm while under the influence, possession of a firearm without the required license and driving without a valid license. At the time of the report, the man remained in police custody.

The man charged in connection with the Tennessee car accident is likely facing serious consequences if the state obtains a conviction on the current drunk driving charge. As this man’s case heads to the criminal courts, his defense team will focus on protecting his rights and ensuring that he receives a fair and impartial trial. He cannot be convicted of any of the charges that he faces unless the state meets the law’s stringent burden of proof of his guilt.

Source: wcyb.com, “West Virginia man charged with 5th DUI in fiery Bristol crash“, Nov. 9, 2014