Repeat Drunk Driving Offenders

In an effort to understand how many drunk driving offenders had prior DUI convictions on their records, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration requested states to supply data. In all, 12 states submitted this requested data and after reviewing the information, the NHTSA discovered that nearly one-third of all DUI arrests and DUI convictions involved repeat drunk driving offenders.

Repeat Offenders Pose A Greater Threat On The Road

The data also uncovered some other concerning statistics. For instance, when comparing first-time DUI offenders with repeat offenders, it was found that a person with a prior DUI has 4.1 times the risk of being involved in a fatal automobile accident. In another study, researchers found that the chances for being involved in a fatal car accident increased with every additional DUI arrest.

It’s evident from these studies that repeat drunk driving is a serious problem in the United States. This is why states continue to crack down on DUI offenders, especially those with prior convictions. With each additional DUI conviction, an offender will receive harsher penalties including expensive fines, increased jail time, probation and community service hours. Driver’s licenses will also be suspended or revoked and the offenders will be required to attend DUI school and substance abuse classes.

Fighting Drunk Driving Charges In Court

If you find yourself in this situation, it is imperative to contact an experienced DUI defense attorney. You may be facing a felony and this can have life-altering consequences. To avoid a conviction, your drunk driving lawyer will look for any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case against you. It may be in your best interest to enter into a plea bargain to avoid the harshest penalties, such as a lengthy state prison sentence. This will depend on many factors.

Based on the severity of the penalties, it’s obvious that states are trying to increase the awareness and highlight the seriousness of driving drunk. In 1992, it was found that more people were arrested for DUI than any other reported criminal offense. Because of this, lawmakers will continue to send drivers the message that driving under the influence is a serious crime with serious consequences.