A DUI (driving under the influence) offense is a major problem throughout the United States, and is responsible for causing up to 39% of all driving fatalities. In the past ten years alone, around 250,000 people have died as a result of DUI accidents. It is estimated that 1 out of 2 Americans will be involved in a DUI accident in their life. In addition, a person operating under the influence is up to six times more likely to be in accident as a sober driver. Additionally, DUI-related fatalities are the leading cause of death for Americans age 16-24. A DUI offense is caused by a driver having a blood-alcohol level (BAC) of 08%, which is a national 'per se' law that all states follow. In some states, there are lesser penalties for anyone having a BAC of .05%. Moreover, every state zero-tolerance policy for anyone under 21 convicted of a DUI. If a driver is found guilty of a DUI, most cases are classified as misdemeanors, although more severe cases and cases involving repeat offenders do carry felony convictions and stiff penalties. These penalties range from simple misdemeanors and alternative sentencing for minor incidents to felony convictions and life in prison for crashes with fatalities.