The consequences for being convicted on drunk driving charges can be severe, especially if the charges stem from an accident involving children. Police and prosecutors are probably more likely to try and make an example out of someone who allegedly put children's safety at risk.

This could be the case for a Cumberland County, North Carolina, man, who allegedly was driving drunk when his pickup truck rear-ended a stopped school bus last week. The man now faces charges of driving while impaired, reckless driving and failing to reduce speed to avoid striking a vehicle.

According to a North Carolina Highway Patrol trooper, the 41-year-old man was allegedly driving 55 mph in a 45-mph zone on U.S. 301 in the small town of Wade, which is just to the northeast of Fayetteville. A witness said the truck appeared to be speeding when it hit the bus.

The bus, which was carrying more than 30 students, was pushed about 100 feet down the road when it was hit. In all, 12 students were taken to a local hospital to be treated, with some complaining of head and neck pain, and others suffering from bruises and cuts.

The alleged drunk driver had to be cut from his truck by rescue workers, and he will be arrested once he is released from the hospital. His injuries were described as non-life threatening.

If he is convicted, he could face jail time, fines, probation or the possible suspension of his driver's license. Losing a license can also lead to the loss of a job. It is imperative that he is represented by someone who can ensure his legal rights are respected, and that police followed proper procedure in determining whether or not he was legally drunk.

Source: Fayetteville Observer, "Man faces drunken driving charge in Wade school bus crash," James Halpin, Jan. 28, 2012