First DUI Offense Could Soon Lead to Jail Time in Wisconsin
Click to learn more about proposed legislation in Wisconsin that would criminalize a first drunk driving offense. Currently, Wisconsin is the only state that does not do so, but a new bill hopes to change that.
October 11, 2012
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation acknowledges that its state has the highest rate of drinking and driving in the nation. In fact, the WDOT reports that roughly 25 percent of adults confessed to driving under the influence of alcohol in 2009.Wisconsinites racked up more than 44,000 drunken driving convictions last year, and with limited resources, authorities are having a difficult time ensuring sober roads. One legislator, however, is trying to make their job a little easier.
ABC reports that Rep. Peggy Krusick of the 7th District recently proposed legislation to criminalize a first drunk driving offense, rather than continuing to treat it like a parking or speeding ticket. Rep. Krusick is trying to bring Wisconsin in line with the rest of the nation, as Wisconsin is the only state that does not criminalize first offenses.
ABC states that the new proposal would make the first offense a misdemeanor, with potential penalties of a $500 maximum fine and up to 30 days in jail. Additionally, the bill would prohibit those convicted of DUI from driving with a BAC above 0.02 for two subsequent years. Authorities are hoping these deterrents will cause would-be first time offenders from getting behind the wheel and to plan for a sober ride.
Current DUI Penalties in Wisconsin
People often make mistakes and fail to realize how much they have had to drink. Most people convicted of DUI/DWI are not bad people, but rather individuals who had a brief error in judgment. Regardless, Wisconsin imposes strict penalties for alcohol-related traffic offenses. The more prior offenses a person has, the stricter the penalties become. Sentences might include:
-Loss, suspension or revocation of driving privileges
-Significant fines
-Jail or prison time
-Ignition interlock devices
-Mandatory substance abuse counseling programs
Drunk driving can be a costly crime, especially considering the higher insurance premiums and other costs people must incur. However, one mistake does not have to impact you for the rest of your life. Anyone charged with DWI or DUI in Wisconsin should speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately to discuss his or her rights and legal options.
Article provided by Huppertz & Powers, S.C.
Visit us at http://www.waukeshacriminalattorneys.com