June 12, 2010
/24-7PressRelease/ -- Simply put, drunk driving is dangerous. When a drunk driver gets behind the wheel, everyone on the road is at risk. Accidents often occur at high speeds and can cause serious injuries and even death. This is especially evident given the rash of fatal accidents involving teen drivers in Minnesota.
New Minnesota laws aim to decrease the number of drunk drivers on the road. A pilot project began in June 2009 that allowed eligible offenders to get their licenses back sooner if they agreed to install an ignition interlock device.
After a DWI, driving privileges can be cancelled for a period of 90 days or more. By participating in the program, offenders can regain their privileges on a provisional (restricted) basis within 15 days (for first time offenders) or 30 days (for repeat offenders).
The Department of Public Safety sets forth recommendations detailing how long offenders will participate in the program. First time offenders must have the device for one year, while repeat offenders will have it for 18 months. Successful completion of the program would yield a new driver's license. As of April 2010, more than 500 people have entered the program.
Beginning July 1, 2011, first time offenders with BAC of .16 and above and repeat offenders will be required to install ignition interlock devices if they want to drive. In addition to using an ignition interlock device, these offenders must also follow recommendations from a substance abuse assessment and any other directives from the court.
The law's proponents find a basic benefit to this approach: those who have demonstrated their inability to drive safely will be less likely to do so. Research from the Pacific Institute of Research and Evaluation (PIRE) indicates that interlock devices reduce recidivism, or repeat offenses.
Currently, 27 states have interlock requirements for high BAC offenders (.15 and above) and repeat offenders, while 12 states impose interlock systems for all people convicted of drunk driving, regardless of BAC or prior DWIs. The overwhelming sentiment is that roads are safer with fewer drunk drivers on them.
It is not expected that the new interlock devices will eliminate the possibility of repeat DWI, but it appears to be a step in the right direction. Although the new law makes it a misdemeanor, a person could simply drive a different car that does not have an interlock device. Some people will continue to drive illegally, even though driving on a suspended or revoked license would likely lead to punitive damages.
If you have been injured in a car accident involving a drunk driver, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to learn about your rights and options under the law.
Article provided by McSweeney & Fay, P.L.L.P.
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