Despite education and awareness programs, drunken driving has been on the rise in California for the last five years. According to dmv.com, the number of DUI charges between 2002 and 2007 increased by over 13 percent. In the same time period the number of DUI-related car accidents increased by over 8 percent. Moreover, DUI/DWI is the largest cause of car crash deaths in the state. Drunk drivers caused over 56 percent of car crash fatalities in 2007.
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), California has some of the most complicated DUI/DWI laws in the country. Not knowing the applicable laws is never an excuse for drunken driving, but a clearer understanding of the consequences might help deter drinking and driving in the future.
· The court could sentence you to up to 6 months in jail
· Your fine could range from $390.00 to $1,000.00
· You could lose your driver’s license for 6 months
· Depending on your blood alcohol content (BAC), you might have to complete a DUI program, which could last 9 months
· There is a $125.00 reissue fee for your driver’s license.
A second or third conviction means you could lose your driver’s license for up to 4 years and requires an ignition interlock device for your car. When all is done, a conviction for drunken driving means thousands of dollars in fines and penalties and potential jail time, especially if you caused a car crash resulting in a fatality.
Has a drunken driver taken the life of someone you know?
Edgar Law Firm – Santa Rosa wrongful death attorneys
