A Ventura, California man has been charged with driving under the influence and evading the police after a chase that reportedly exceeded 60 mph. Police arrested 27-year-old Sergio Diaz on April 6th, saying he hit a parked car before leading them on the chase, ABC Eyewitness News reported. Of the potential charges against Diaz, the most serious is evading the police under California Vehicle Code §2800.2. If done with with wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property, evading the police can be charged as a felony. If convicted, Diaz could face up to three years in California state prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Diaz also faces the possibility of an additional conviction for hit and run of a parked vehicle under California Vehicle Code §20002. That charge carries a possible sentence of up to six months in county jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Surprisingly perhaps, the possible DUI charges – California Vehicle Code §23152(a), driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, and/or California Vehicle Code §23152(b), driving with a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or greater – are only misdemeanors. If no one was injured, and Diaz has no prior DUIs, he will not serve any jail time for a DUI conviction. Still, even if Diaz is a first-time offender, he could lose his California driver's license in a separate hearing by the California Department of Motor Vehicles. He could also suffer additional consequences, such as an increase in his insurance premiums. And if he does have a prior DUI, or anyone was injured as a result of his DUI, he could spend time in county jail – or even California state prison – and be required to attend a mandatory alcohol or  drug education program. He might also be order to pay restitution to anyone who suffered injuries or property damage as a result of any DUI. California takes charges of driving under the influence seriously. Engaging an experienced DUI defense attorney quickly can help keep you out of jail and protect your right to drive. If you have been charged with DUI or a related offense, the Kann California Defense Group can help. We have a proven track record of successfully defending Southern California clients who have been accused – rightly or wrongly -- of DUI. Don't hesitate – contact us today for a free and confidential consultation.