States are constantly looking for the best way to minimize drunk driving related deaths. In order to do that these states frequently tweak their respective DUI/DWI laws in order to deter drunk driving.
As of January 1, 2012 several changes to the pre-existing drunk driving laws have gone into effect throughout the United States.
For instance, Arizona, a state known for having some of the strictest DUI laws in the country, decreased its Ignition Interlock Device requirement to be installed upon a first-time convicted DUI offender’s car upon driver’s license reinstatement from 1 year to 6 months.
A modification to existing California law now gives a presiding judge discretion to suspend a third time convicted DUI offender’s license for up to 10 years.
A new law in Connecticut makes an Ignition Interlock Device a requirement for first-time convicted DUI offenders. The law also reduces a first-time offenders driver’s license suspension from 1 year to 45 days plus 1 year with the Ignition Interlock Device (IID). Second time offenders will also receive a 45 day suspension followed by 3 years with the IID.
Nebraska changed its look back period from 12 to 15 years for subsequent DUI offenders. This means that you are a repeat offender if you have more than one DUI within the last 15 years. All drivers arrested for DUI or chemical test refusal will be issued a 15 day temporary driver’s license. And finally, the legislature introduced an option allowing people charged with DUI or chemical test refusal to bypass an administrative license revocation hearing and instead apply for an IID for limited driving purposes.
As of January 1, 2012 first time DUI offenders in Oregon who qualify for the diversion program are required to have an Ignition Interlock Device installed in their vehicle.
Finally, in Tennessee, a new law makes it illegal for drivers previously convicted of DUI and drivers suspected of DUI while transporting passengers 16 and under to refuse a chemical blood alcohol test.
Hopefully, these changes will satisfy the legislature’s intent by continuing to make our highways a safer place.
What do you think?
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